Saskatchewan Reviewing Vehicle Weight & Dimension Rules

The Government of Saskatchewan is conducting a formal review of its Vehicle Weight & Dimension regulations, including potential updates to: 

• Expansion of high-clearance corridors 
• Introduction of a new Project Permit category 
• Revised criteria for highway classifications 
• These changes could significantly affect routing, planning, and heavy/oversize permitting. 

What carriers should do: 

• Identify routes or loads that would benefit from corridor expansions 
• Watch for upcoming Ministry engagement windows and timelines 

Ministry of Highways Signals Changes for Heavy Haul Sector

Recent discussions between industry and the Ministry of Highways confirm work is underway on: 

• Expanded high-load corridor infrastructure 
• A new Project Permit aimed at long-term or complex hauls 

This indicates policy development is progressing and may soon move toward implementation. 

Action for heavy-haul members: 

• Ensure route planners and dispatch teams are aware of possible upcoming changes 

Winter Weight Orders and Seasonal Restrictions

Saskatchewan has issued winter weight orders, and some regions have seen adjusted start dates based on local weather and RM conditions. Seasonal weight allowances can shift quickly. Winter Weight Season — typically November 16 → March 14. 

Reminder: 

• Verify current weight orders before dispatching heavier loads 
• Check both the provincial order and RM/local permit pages 
• STA will continue monitoring and send alerts when updates occur 

ELD Compliance — Federal Focus Continues

Transport Canada continues emphasizing full compliance with certified ELDs. 

The official list of approved devices is being actively maintained. 

Carrier checklist: 

• Confirm your ELD is listed on Transport Canada’s certified device registry 
• Keep firmware and software updates current 
• Ensure drivers and safety staff are trained on malfunction procedures and backup requirements 

Federal Enforcement on Driver Misclassification

The federal government has increased inspections related to employee vs. independent contractor status in road transportation. While activity has been centred in Ontario, the compliance focus is national. 

What this means for carriers: 

• Review the status of owner-operators and contractors 
• Ensure contracts, payroll, and insurance reflect actual working conditions 
• Reduce risks involving EI/CPP under-deductions, labour standards issues, or insurance gaps 

National Transportation and Infrastructure Developments 

Transport Canada has released departmental priorities that include: 

• Investments that may shift freight volumes 
• Major port and intermodal projects (including Prince Rupert) 
• Continued focus on safety technology and inspection modernization 

These developments can influence long-haul freight routing and capacity planning for Saskatchewan carriers. 

STA Recommendations for This Week 

• Verify ELD compliance and device certification 
• Monitor winter weights and RM restrictions before planning heavy loads 
• Prepare feedback for STA’s submission on weight and dimension reforms 
• Audit contractor classifications ahead of federal enforcement activities 
• Heavy-haul carriers: share corridor challenges with STA for advocacy planning