MTO’s limited trial of extended length semi-trailers (60 foot semi-trailers) has been operating since February 2013.
Below is an overview of the trial program to date:
- 2 carriers participating (each in partnership with a retail organization) with a total of 447,025 km travelled.
- A total of 40 permits have been available for the trial, with a maximum of 8 per participating carrier (only 8 have been issued).
- Carriers are limited to 4 permits for their first year of operation.
- 303,070 km travelled with loaded trailers
- 143,955 km travelled with empty trailers
- 2090 trips completed
- 38 approved carrier-retailer origin-destination locations
- 1, 378 trips with loaded trailers
- 712 trips with empty trailers
- Average Trip length is 214 km
The MTO trial conditions specify that there must be sufficient data (3.2 million kms of travel) prior to any further evaluation of the trial program.
OTA’s position, established in 2012 is that it will support and assist with a cautious, orderly and controlled approach to the restricted use of 60-foot trailers in Ontario. The trial conditions MTO has set forth are in line with OTA’s position.
OTA will continue to provide updates on this issue for the membership as developments occur. OTA members with questions can contact weights&dimensions@184.107.41.74