Extended Stinger-Steer Auto Carrier Program
Learn about Extended Stinger-Steer Auto Carriers that can be operated in Ontario with a permit.
Overview
Stinger-Steer Auto Carriers are tractor-trailers that transport cars. In the United States, the maximum length for Stinger-Steer Auto Carriers is 27.4 metres (90 feet). In Ontario, you need a special vehicle configuration permit to operate an Extended Stinger-Steer Auto Carrier (ESSAC) that is more than 25 metres (82 feet) long, and there are different restrictions for different types of ESSACs.
Types of Extended Stinger-Steer Auto Carriers
When you apply for a permit, the Ministry of Transportation will classify your vehicle based on its dimensions and the length of its overhangs. It will be classified as either:
- a full ESSAC
- a transitional safe, productive, and infrastructure-friendly (SPIF) hybrid
- an ON-ESSAC
Full ESSAC and transitional SPIF hybrids can only be operated along specific approved routes. New proposed routes must be engineer-assessed and submitted to the Ministry of Transportation for approval. If approved, they will be added to the ESSAC permit package.
ON-ESSACs can be operated anywhere in Ontario where large trucks are permitted.
When you receive your special vehicle configuration permit, you will get a full list of conditions based on your vehicle configuration type.
Apply for a permit
To apply for a special vehicle configuration permit to operate an ESSAC configuration, contact the Ministry of Transportation.
Email: ESSAC.Monitoring@ontario.ca
By mail:
Ministry of Transportation
Highway Operations Permits Office
301 St. Paul Street, 2nd Floor
St. Catharines, Ontario
L2R 7R4