Winter weight season will officially begin in northern Saskatchewan at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 8, the provincial government announced on Dec. 5.
Read more: Weather is cold, Bobcats are hot
Highways minister, David Marit, said the seasonal change will allow commercial trucks to haul heavier loads on secondary highways, offering a boost to Saskatchewan’s export-driven economy.
“Winter weights play a role moving agricultural products and other goods across the province more efficiently, which benefits our economy that maintains our quality of life,” said Marit. “We continue monitoring conditions to determine when winter weights can start in the rest of Saskatchewan.”
Once the roadbed beneath the pavement freezes enough to handle heavier truck traffic, winter weights take effect.
Saskatchewan Trucking Association executive director, Susan Ewart, said the adjustment is an important tool for the industry.
“By allowing heavier loads during the cold months, we can move more goods with fewer trips, improving efficiency and reducing costs,” said Ewart. “This seasonal adjustment helps strengthen supply chains, supports our exporters and ensures Saskatchewan products reach markets quickly and competitively.”
Truckers and shippers can check winter weight status and the latest road restriction orders at the provincial government’s trucking weights webpage. Technical and regulatory information is also available through the Ministry of Highways’ Trucking Inquiry Line.
Rural municipalities can choose whether to participate in the winter weights program. Those that opt out set and enforce their own weight limits on local roads.
Read more: Council defeats permitting contract award
