Truck weight limit issue remains unresolved as Panama Canal expansion looms

With increased shipments moving through the Panama Canal, many believe upping truck weight limits is the next logical step. … Most likely, a weight increase from 80,000 to 97,000 pounds would have to come with an increase of five to six axles on a truck; however, motor carriers often don’t want to add additional axles because it cuts into the payload.

The issue of the safety of local roadways is the most important factor of the truck-weight discussion, said Brian Fielkow, president of Houston-based Jetco Delivery Inc., which operates 90 trucks out of local terminals.

“From my standpoint, it is all about safety — can the trucks and trailers on the roads be safe, and can the highway structure handle it?” Fielkow said. “A good business case can be made for or against the heavier weight limits, but for me, you have to look at the safety and infrastructure issues.”

Houston Business Journal