AMTA instrumental as Alberta, BC and Saskatchewan ink deal to harmonize trucking regulations Canada’s three westernmost AMTA’s Don Wilson. “By eliminating different standards, rules and regulations provinces have inked a Don in each of the respective provinces it will landmark deal to harmonize Wilson create efficiencies for shippers, truckers and ultimately their customers. A lower truck weights and Executive Director, cost for the transportation of goods is a AMTA dimensions regulations. win-win for all of us,” he says. AMTA Executive Director Don Wilson The changes will be Q: What does the deal contain? shares details about the recent announce- implemented in two phases. ment and what it means to Alberta fleets: Some of the highlights include a 500-kg The first set of changes increase in steering axle weights (to 6,000 Q: How will the deal benefit Alberta? kgs) to accommodate fuel-saving technolo- kicked in on July 1 with the The move is aimed at boosting trade gies such as APUs and the harmonization balance, which will require efficiencies and the economies of all of length and dimension limits for tri-drive three provinces. “Harmonization should trucks, tractors and trailer configurations, more consultation with promote the moving of people and allowing fleets to standardize vehicles in industry groups like AMTA, goods more efficiently and will contribute western Canada. The provinces also agreed to continued economic growth and to increase length limits for A-, B- and will be implemented in 2012. prosperity for all three provinces,” says C-train combinations by one metre to an 18 Winter 2011 REturn to Table of contents