Transporting New Zealand calls for payload increases to mitigate diesel price hikes

Road freight association Transporting New Zealand says transport regulations should be urgently amended to allow certain trucks to carry higher payloads, as diesel prices continue to hit record highs.

Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Dom Kalasih says increasing payload capacity for approved operators within the existing heavy vehicle permitting system could improve fuel efficiency across the freight task and reduce diesel cost pressures.

Heavy vehicle permitting regulations currently allow approved freight operators to run High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs) on state highways and local roads suitable for vehicles operating above the standard 44-tonne weight limit.

“I have written to New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), asking the agency to consider how the heavy vehicle permitting regulations could be urgently amended to move more freight in fewer trips,” Kalasih says.

“Increasing allowable payloads on 50MAX vehicles and other HPMVs could reduce the diesel required to move freight, while maintaining a safe and well-regulated system. That will put downward pressure on freight costs at a time when businesses and consumers are doing it really tough.”

“HPMVs are already delivering fuel savings compared to standard 44-tonne trucks. For example, 50MAX trucks increase freight capacity by approximately 20% while only increasing diesel use by 10%, with their additional axle ensuring no additional wear on roads per tonne of freight.”

“Improving freight efficiency also has benefits for safety and emissions, as fewer trips are required to move the same volume of goods.”

“Now more than ever we need a regulator that is responsive and agile in getting freight moved the best way possible. We’re looking forward to working constructively with NZTA to maximise the savings that the permitting system can offer.”