Released on November 28, 2014
Saskatchewan winter has a silver lining for shippers. Winter weights begin at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, allowing heavier loads to be transported on secondary weight highways.“Saskatchewan’s economic growth is fuelled by exports which are often transported by truck,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Nancy Heppner said. “Shippers save time and money during the winter season as frozen road beds can withstand heavier weights.”
Sub-zero temperatures firm up the roadbeds of secondary weight highways allowing them to carry primary weight loads without causing damage. Primary weight highways support the heaviest legal loads on Saskatchewan roads.
Winter weights typically last through the winter and are removed on March 15 when warmer temperatures cause the roadbeds to thaw. However, shippers need to check the status of winter weights regularly as the ministry may remove winter weights earlier in some areas depending on weather conditions.
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 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:
Joel Cherry
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4805