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
Permit Office
301 St. Paul Street, 3rd Floor
St. Catharines, Ontario
L2R 7R4

Tel: 416-246-7166
Toll-free: 1-800-387-7736
Fax: 905-704-2545