Released on November 28, 2013
Shippers will welcome the colder, wintery weather as winter weights begin at 12:01 a.m. Sunday, December 1.
"Trucking is a vital aspect of our export-based economy, particularly in a province that continues to grow," Highways and Infrastructure Minister Don McMorris said. "Shippers can haul heavier loads during colder winter months, which results in fewer trips and cost savings.”
When a roadbed is frozen, secondary weight highways contain the same strength as primary weight highways, which support the heaviest legal loads on Saskatchewan roads. Since it allows efficient movement of goods from secondary to primary weight highways, shippers using secondary weight highways benefit from winter.
Winter weights are typically removed on March 15, but shippers need to check the status regularly. As in the past, when temperatures rise and roadbeds remain soft, the ministry may remove winter weights in some areas.
To find the latest road restriction orders online, go to www.highways.gov.sk.ca/restrictions or call the Highway Hotline: Regina and area at 306-787-7623; Saskatoon and area at 306-933-8333; toll free across Canada at 1-888-335-7623; and the SaskTel Cellular Network at *ROAD.
For technical and regulatory information, shippers in Saskatchewan can also phone the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (formerly Transport Compliance Branch) Inquiry Line weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1-866-933-5290. Outside of Saskatchewan, commercial carriers can call 306-933-5290.
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For more information, contact:
Steve Shaheen
Highways and Infrastructure
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-933-5641