Truckers Warn of Fuel Surcharges

OTTAWA - Apr 19/06 - SNS -- Canadian truckers are warning shippers they will likely see another round of fuel surcharge increases in the coming months as the industry suffers under the dual concerns of rising diesel costs and less efficient fuel usage rates once the industry converts to low sulphur diesel.

The Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) says diesel fuel jumped 21% over the past ten weeks and is up 27% from this time last year. Today's prices are 26.5 cents more per CARS, or 64% higher than they were two years ago.

"CTA and the provincial trucking associations are seeking the mandatory activation of speed limiters on all trucks operating in Canada to conserve fuel," says CTA CEO David Bradley.

"We are calling upon the federal government to renew and improve the Natural Resources Canada rebate program for the purchase of auxiliary power units to reduce engine idling; and we want all the provincial governments to agree to weight allowances for the installation of anti-idling and anti-emissions devices so payload is not impaired."

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