CARM: What all importers need to know about CARM

Universal Logistics - Take The Right Route Logo with 70 Years Badge

Quebec Spring Thaw Restrictions for 2019

The Quebec Ministry of Transportation has released its 2019 “Spring Thaw” dates and zones. These are container weight restrictions imposed every year to protect Quebec highways during the spring thaw.

Zone 1
Montreal, Montmagny, Sherbrooke, St. Jerome

Zone 2
Val D’Or, Chicoutimi, Sept Iles, Riviere du Loup

Zone 3
Remaining portion of Quebec

Monday, March 11 (12:01 a.m.)
to Friday, May 10 (11:59 p.m.)

Monday, March 18 (12:01 a.m.)
to Friday, May 17 (11:59 p.m.)

Monday, March 25 (12:01 a.m.)
to Friday, May 24 (11:59 p.m.)

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

The weight restrictions not only apply to the total cargo weight within the container, but also the distribution of weight over the axles of the chassis. If cargo weight is not distributed evenly across all axles, the container could be subject to additional fines.

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, ext. 308 Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions.

More Trade Alerts:

December 2024

December 18, 2024
All Canadian offices of Universal Logistics will be closed from 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 24th through to Thursday, December 26th.  Normal business hours will resume…

December 2024

December 11, 2024
The Canadian Federal Government is implementing, pending Royal Assent, a temporary GST/HST holiday break on certain goods beginning December 14th 2024 and ending February 15th…

Switch to a Logistics
Partner Who Cares

Click the button below to find out why we’ve been Canada’s most trusted freight forwarder and customs broker for over 75 years.

Professional business people team meeting and working in corporate office concept

Register now to learn more about our

101 Logistics Quick Tips

Available exclusively from Universal Logistics