Vancouver Imposes Truck Licensing Scheme

VANCOUVER - Mar 23/06 - SNS -- The Vancouver Port Authority (VPA) is introducing new and stronger requirements to its mandatory Truck Licensing System (TLS) effective March 27.

These will include more rigorous safety, security and environmental standards that will apply to all container trucks and container truck operations at Lower Mainland ports.

The new requirements are part of the VPA's response to last summer's withdrawal of services by most lower mainland container truckers. Container truck operators will have 60 days to comply with changes designed to improve the flow of container truck traffic on lower mainland roadways, reduce wait times at truck gates, reinforce safe driver behavior, and reduce emissions.

"It is critical that we do everything possible to ensure stability in the container trucking sector. Last year's dispute shone a national spotlight on the importance of the port to Canada's retail sector and exporters," said Captain Gordon Houston, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Vancouver Port Authority.

Chief among the new license provisions is mandatory compliance with container terminal reservation systems. Also, operators will be required to take advantage of extended hours of operation at terminal truck gates.

"The Port of Vancouver's container terminals have had various reservation systems in place for some time, but for a variety of reasons they have not been well-utilized at all terminals. Mandatory terminal reservation systems reduce congestion at peak times and spread the volume out over the whole operating period," said Houston.

The VPA's new licensing requirements also include mandatory participation in a truck monitoring and vehicle location program, disclosure and sharing of vehicle and driver safety information, enhanced environmental and safety standards, and compliance with designated truck routes.

"Easing congestion at terminal gates will reduce air pollution caused by idling trucks. Spreading truck movements out over the course of a longer operating period will reduce road congestion and make better use of expensive transportation infrastructure. And, requiring trucks to adhere to established truck routes will help address community safety and noise concerns," noted Houston.

All trucks wishing to access Lower Mainland ports must have a valid TLS license. The new TLS licensing requirements will take effect on Thursday, May 25, preceded by a 60-day transition period beginning Monday, March 27. Operators can access the new TLS at www.portvancouver.com after March 27.