OTTAWA, (Nov. 8, 2004) — The Ontario Trucking Association says it has been informed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) that effective November 1, 2004, the inbound FAST lanes to Canada at Ambassador Bridge and Blue Water Bridge can be utilized by drivers with a valid CDRP or FAST card provided the drivers are working for a Canadian FAST-approved carrier, moving FAST-approved freight for a FAST-approved importer.

To be a certified FAST carrier into Canada, carriers will have achieved a CSA designation and signed the Partners in Protection (PIP) Memorandum with the CBSA. When fully approved, carriers are provided a letter and a FAST certificate by a CBSA client representative.

Empty trucks belonging to FAST-approved carriers can also use the FAST lane if they have a FAST or CDRP-approved driver, the OTA says. (A lead sheet with the FAST-approved carrier code must be presented with driver’s FAST card for empty trucks).

Despite the recent announcement by CBSA to allow CDRP drivers to use the FAST lanes inbound to Canada only, they indicated to OTA that they would still prefer to see drivers apply for FAST registration as this card allows drivers to enjoy the benefits of the program in both directions.

With the upcoming U.S. rule requiring carriers and drivers hauling BRASS shipments to be FAST-approved, it would make more sense that drivers pursue FAST registration over the CDRP program, OTA says.