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Quebec Spring Thaw Restrictions for 2016

Toronto, March 2, 2016

The Quebec Ministry of Transportation has released its 2016 “Spring Thaw” dates and zones. These are container weight restrictions imposed every year to protect Quebec highways during the spring thaw.

Zone 1

Zone 2

Zone 3

Montreal, Montmagny, Sherbrooke, St. Jerome

Val D’Or, Chicoutimi, Sept Iles, Riviere du Loup Remaining portion of Quebec
Monday, March 14 (12:01 a.m.)

to Friday, May 13 (11:59 p.m.)

Monday, March 21 (12:01 a.m.)

to Friday, May 20 (11:59 p.m.)

Monday, March 28 (12:01 a.m.)

to Friday, May 27 (11:59 p.m.)

The maximum recommended cargo weight carried during the thaw period is as follows:

20’ Std: 47,900 lbs
40’ Std/HQ: 50,000 lbs
45’HQ: 50,000 lbs
20’ Reefer: 46,000 lbs
40’ Reefer: 48,000 lbs

Please note, these details are guidelines. The dates are subject to change by the Quebec Ministry of Transportation, depending on actual weather conditions. It is advisable that you visit the Ministry’s website (available only in French), for complete updated details. We recommend that you ensure your shippers are aware of these cargo weight limits in order to prevent any additional costs/handling once containers arrive in Quebec during the thaw period.

Cargo that is deemed overweight may require the trucker to use extra axles which will incur additional costs.

If you have any questions concerning shipments booked with Universal Logistics and how they may be impacted by the above, please call (905) 882-4880 Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions.

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