The Northern Territory Livestock Loading Scheme provides for the efficient and safe transport of livestock by road. This can be completed with maximum densities as long as the vehicle size and safety as well as the requirements for the welfare of the animals is followed.
This guide at the Northern Territory Department of Transport http://www.transport.nt.gov.au/ provides information for all people, both drivers and operators who wish to be a part of the scheme:
Who may enter the scheme?
Entry to the scheme is available to both Northern Territory and Interstate operators, but is not compulsory. Normal load limits will apply to all other livestock vehicles
Entry Requirements
NT Registered vehicles and Interstate Registered vehicles that are not participating in a Livestock Loading Scheme in their jurisdiction of registration and are seeking entry to the NT scheme must present each unit (truck, trailer, and dolly) to a Vehicle Standards Centre in Darwin, Katherine or Alice Springs for a Transport Inspector to carry out a specific Livestock Loading technical inspection. Tare mass details are required for each trailer.
Interstate Registered vehicles that are participating in a Livestock Loading Scheme in their jurisdiction of registration and have evidence of that, do not require a vehicle entry inspection, however may operate at the increased mass limits, provided they have a current NT Livestock Loading Permit.
There is no requirement for on going annual Livestock Loading vehicle inspections, unless the operator advises of changes to the tare mass of a trailer.
Technical Requirements
The NT scheme is open to double decker livestock transport vehicles in either double or triple configuration. All trailers, including dollies, must be fitted with dual tyred axle groups and may be fitted with Road Friendly or Steel Suspension.
Livestock loads are not to exceed 420 kg per square metre of deck space. For vehicles operating under a current NT Livestock Loading permit of exemption, maximum axle mass limits of 18.5 tonne on dual tyred tandem axle groups and 25 tonne on dual tyred tri-axle groups are applicable.
If you would like further information about the Northern Territory Livestock Loading Scheme and how to take part please see the full guidelines at the link above.
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