MONTREAL – Trucking companies across Canada are facing significant disruptions as tariffs impact cross-border trade between Canada and the United States. Following the implementation of U.S. President Donald Trump's 25 percent tariff on Canadian imports, as well as retaliatory duties imposed by Canada, trucking firms are halting shipments, considering layoffs, and searching for alternative routes to mitigate the fallout.

The heightened actions came as a direct response to the looming tariffs, prompting a rush in deliveries over the two months leading up to the tariff enactment. Shippers scrambled to expedite shipments before the tariffs took effect, resulting in a temporary surge in activity. However, as the tariffs have now been implemented, many trucking businesses are already experiencing a considerable decline in shipments.

Trevor Bent, CEO of Eassons Transport Group, based in Nova Scotia, has reported that his company is facing a significant lull in orders. With shipments ranging from seafood to potatoes on pause, the outlook remains uncertain. Eassons Transport Group relies heavily on the U.S. market, with approximately 20 percent of its sales sourced from American distributors and retailers. Without a rebound in business, Bent warns that layoffs may soon be necessary.

In a broader context, the Canadian Trucking Alliance has indicated that cancellations of orders have become commonplace among customers. In Ontario, a survey conducted by the industry group revealed alarming trends, with numerous fleets reporting recent or anticipated job cuts due to the sharp decline in shipments attributable to the tariffs.

Statistics Canada emphasizes the critical role of trucking in trade, stating that road shipments accounted for 52 percent of the country’s import value and 40 percent of its exports in 2023. This flow of goods predominantly involves trading with the United States, highlighting the significant interdependence of both countries in terms of cross-border commerce.

This report raises concerns about the long-term impact of these tariffs on the trucking industry and, by extension, on Canada's economic landscape, which heavily relies on trade with the U.S.

Christopher Reynolds, The Canadian Press

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A truck waits to cross at the United States and Canada border in Surrey, B.C., on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns

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