Did you know: Extended wheel-base permits

While pundits debate whether President-elect Donald Trump will in fact build a wall between America and its NAFTA neighbours, the Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) is reminding politicians in both Canada and the U.S. how escalating costs and redundant fees imposed by governments at the border can be just as stifling as any physical barrier.

“Trade between our two great nations is the number one source of exports for 35 states, creating nine million U.S jobs as a result,” said Stephen Laskowski, senior vice president, CTA. “Our members’ trucks haul close to two-thirds of this trade. Raising the amount of penalties and types of fees at the border is increasing the cost of goods made in North America, which reduces their competitiveness in comparison to off-shore products.

“If Ottawa and Washington begin examining new trade deals then there also needs to be a review and reconsideration oDid you know:

Carriers can obtain an extended wheel-base tractor permit for $15.

According to the Government of Alberta, the permit only applies to:

• A combination of a truck tractor equipped with a single or tandem drive and semi-trailer when the wheelbase of the truck tractor exceeds 6.2 metres.

• A combination of a truck tractor equipped with double semi-trailers operating in a B-train configuration when the wheelbase of the truck tractor exceeds 6.2 metres.

• A truck tractor with a wheelbase of up to 7.2 metres operating with no semi-trailer attached.

The Government stated the permit does not apply to A-train, C-train, long combination vehicle or a combination of a truck tractor equipped with a tridem drive and semi-trailer. The permit also does not apply to a truck tractor equipped with permanently mounted equipment.

The maximum overall length of a B-train combination can’t exceed 27.5 metres, including heavy duty bumpers.

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