The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) changed its truck weight policy at its recent annual meeting, marking the second time in recent months that the association has put itself at odds with the American Trucking Associations over truck policy.
TCA’s Board of Directors endorsed the existing 80,000-pound limit on five axles, with the caveat that the association’s Highway Policy Committee would consider changes if at any point Congress takes up the issue. Currently no truck size and weight legislation is pending in Congress.
TCA and ATA in 2011 mutually endorsed 88,000 pounds on five axles and 97,000 pounds on six axles to increase truck productivity. Federal truck weights have been set at 80,000 pounds for more than 20 years, except for states that had grandfathered in higher limits.
TCA split with ATA policy in 2015 over the issue of 33-foot trailers. At the time, TCA said allowing 33-foot trailers would put pressure on truckload carriers to switch to longer trailers to haul truckload freight and that such a shift would be disastrous for many truckload carriers. TCA said many carriers simply could not afford to invest in twin 33-foot trailers or afford the increased cost of training, certifying and licensing drivers.
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