Canada’s vast geography presents unique challenges for businesses moving goods across the country and across borders. If you’re wondering how Canadian transport companies operate, here are the answers to 10 of the most common questions, with insights from XTL Transport.

1. Is It Expensive to Ship to Canada?

Shipping costs to Canada depend on several factors, including:

• Shipment origin & destination – Distance and trade imbalances impact pricing.
• Mode of transportation – Air, rail, truck, or sea each have different cost structures.
• Fuel prices & customs fees – Taxes and duties vary by product type.
• Seasonal trends – Peak seasons (e.g., produce season) can increase rates.

Pricing in the transportation industry is more complex than just cost per mile. While many shippers calculate transportation expenses based on mileage, carrier rates are largely driven by market dynamics rather than the actual cost of covering that distance. A key example of this is triangular freight routes, where instead of simple round trips, carriers consider multi-leg routes for efficiency.

For instance, a route like Toronto–Montreal–New York–Toronto allows for better load balancing. In some cases, market rates on one leg of the journey may be lower than the actual cost, but another leg may compensate by being higher than cost. As long as the overall route remains profitable, it makes economic sense for the carrier. This approach highlights the intricacies of freight pricing and how strategic route planning optimizes both costs and efficiency.

2. How Many Trucking Companies Are There in Canada?

There are over 300,000 registered trucking companies in Canada, ranging from small independent operators to large fleets. Trucking moves over 90% of consumer goods and manufactured products. XTL Transport ranks 24th on Today’s Trucking’s list of Canada’s Top 100 for-hire carriers.

3. What Is the Average Salary of a Truck Driver in Canada?

Truck drivers earn between $55,000 and $75,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and haul type. Long-haul and specialized freight drivers often earn more. XTL Transport has been recognized as one of Trucking HR Canada’s Top Fleet Employers, valuing its drivers with competitive pay and benefits.

4. How Long Does It Take to Ship from Vancouver to Toronto?

Transit time between Vancouver and Toronto depends on the shipping method:

• Truckload (Single Driver): A driver can typically cover 500 miles per day, assuming an average speed of 50 miles per hour over 10 hours of driving. With a distance of approximately 2,700 miles, a single-driver truck shipment would take about 5-6 days, including pickup and delivery.
• Truckload (Team Drivers): A team of drivers can alternate shifts, allowing for continuous movement and covering up to 1,000 miles per day, reducing transit time to about 3 days.
• LTL Shipments: Less-than-truckload shipments often involve multiple stops and freight consolidation, which can extend transit time to 6-7 days.
• Rail Freight: Typically takes 6-10 days, depending on scheduling, terminal handling times, and intermodal connections.
• Air Freight: The fastest but most expensive option, with transit times of 1-2 days.

Tip: Reduce transit delays and mitigate risks by partnering with a provider that offers both intermodal and truckload services. This allows for greater flexibility in routing and cost optimization.

5. Who Regulates Trucking Companies in Canada?

The trucking industry in Canada is regulated by both federal and provincial authorities. Transport Canada oversees national regulations, while provincial bodies handle regional compliance. XTL Transport adheres to all regulatory standards, ensuring safety and reliability in our operations.

6. How Do Canadian Transport Companies Handle Cross-Border Shipping?

Cross-border shipping requires compliance with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Many carriers, including XTL Transport, are C-TPAT certified, ensuring faster customs clearance.

Read: Navigating Transborder Trucking

7. What Are the Top Transport Hubs in Canada

Key logistics hubs include:
• Toronto, Ontario – Largest freight hub
• Montreal, Quebec – Key for rail and ocean freight
• Vancouver, British Columbia – Major west coast port
• Calgary, Alberta – Central for Western Canada logistics

8. What Insurance Coverage Do Canadian Transport Companies Offer?

Most carriers provide basic cargo insurance, typically at $4.41 per kg ($2.00 per lb). However, liability limits vary by province and additional coverage may be required for high-value shipments.

For more details, visit:

Transport Canada – Cargo Liability Regulations 

FMCSA Cargo Liability Guidelines

9. How Do Canadian Transport Companies Handle Hazardous Materials?

HAZMAT shipments must comply with Transport Canada and FMCSA (U.S.) regulations. XTL ensures proper classification, labeling, and safety training for hazardous goods.

For more details, visit:

Transport Canada’s Dangerous Goods Regulations

FMCSA Hazardous Materials Regulations

10. What Truck Types and Capacities Are Common in Canada?

• Dry Vans (53ft) – Up to 26 standard pallets
• Refrigerated Trailers – Temperature-controlled freight
• Flatbeds – For oversized cargo

Learn more: How Much Freight Fits on a Truck?

Conclusion

Understanding Canada’s transportation industry is crucial for businesses and individuals alike. XTL Transport’s experience makes us a trusted partner for all your logistics needs. For more information, contact us today.

As winter approaches, the need for reliable logistics solutions becomes critical for businesses handling temperature-sensitive goods. Fluctuating weather patterns, increasingly harsh winters due to climate change, and rising demand for high-quality heated transport services require shippers to be more vigilant than ever. Whether you’re transporting pharmaceuticals, fresh produce, or other perishable items, ensuring product integrity hinges on choosing the right partner and understanding the nuances of temperature-controlled logistics.

Why Temperature-Controlled Transport Is Crucial

Over the past decade, the demand for temperature-controlled logistics has skyrocketed. This trend is driven by the rise in consumer demand for fresh food, the globalization of pharmaceutical supply chains, and the growing importance of precision in cold chain management.

Winter intensifies the challenges, especially in regions like Canada and the northern U.S., where temperatures can plummet dramatically. The stakes are high: any deviation from the required temperature range can lead to spoilage, financial losses, and even regulatory repercussions for businesses.

The Impact of Climate Change on Winter Logistics

Climate change has reshaped the logistics landscape, with winters becoming more unpredictable and extreme. Canada, for instance, has seen a rise in average winter temperatures by over 3°C since 1950. This warming trend paradoxically results in more intense snowfall and ice storms, increasing the likelihood of transportation delays and risks to temperature-sensitive goods.

For shippers, these conditions amplify the need for advanced solutions that can maintain product integrity despite external disruptions.

Know the Difference: Temperature-Controlled vs. Protect from Freeze

A key consideration for businesses is understanding the distinction between temperature-controlled transport and protect from freeze services. While both aim to shield goods from adverse conditions, they differ in scope and capabilities.

Protect from Freeze

• Definition: This service prevents products from freezing during transit, ensuring temperatures remain above the freezing point.
• Methodology: Approaches vary and may include:
  • Transit Timing: Scheduling shipments to minimize exposure to freezing conditions.
  • Insulation: Using materials to reduce heat loss.
  • Portable Heaters: Employing diesel-fired heaters to add warmth without precise temperature control.
  • Heated Warehousing: Storing goods in heated facilities between transit legs.
• Limitations: These methods don’t guarantee a specific temperature and may not suffice for products requiring strict thermal conditions.

Temperature-Controlled Transport

• Definition: This service maintains products within a specified temperature range throughout transit, regardless of external conditions.
• Methodology: Utilizes advanced equipment such as:
  • Refrigerated Trailers: Equipped with precise heating and cooling systems.
  • Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous tracking of internal temperatures.
  • Insulation: High-quality materials to minimize temperature fluctuations.
• Advantages: Ensures consistent temperatures, making it ideal for sensitive goods like pharmaceuticals and certain chemicals.

Key Differences

• Precision: Temperature-controlled transport offers exact temperature maintenance, whereas protect from freeze aims only to prevent freezing without precise control.
• Reliability: Temperature-controlled services provide consistent conditions, while protect from freeze methods can be less dependable, especially in extreme cold.
• Applicability: Products with strict temperature requirements necessitate temperature-controlled transport, whereas less sensitive items might suffice with protect from freeze services.

Choosing the right solution depends on the nature of your cargo. For high-stakes shipments, temperature-controlled transport offers peace of mind and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

XTL: A Leader in Temperature-Controlled Transport

XTL is a trusted name in temperature-controlled logistics, offering tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of shippers:

1. State-of-the-Art Equipment:
   XTL’s fleet is equipped with advanced technology to ensure precise temperature control. Features include real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and live updates to ensure every shipment is protected throughout its journey.
2. Comprehensive Services:
   XTL offers truckload, and dedicated transportation options across Canada and the U.S., catering to a wide range of shipping requirements.
3. Proactive Monitoring:
   With live diagnostics and alerts, XTL can quickly identify and address potential issues, ensuring products remain safe regardless of external disruptions.
4. Regulatory Compliance:
   From hazardous materials to pharmaceutical products, XTL adheres to stringent quality control standards, making them the preferred partner for sensitive shipments.

How Shippers Can Prepare for Winter

To ensure successful shipments during the harsh winter months, shippers should adopt the following best practices:

• Monitor Weather Conditions: Stay updated on forecasts and plan shipments around potential disruptions.
• Collaborate with Carriers: Work closely with transportation providers like XTL to develop contingency plans.
• Optimize Packaging: Use insulated packaging to provide an additional layer of protection.
• Schedule Strategically: Avoid peak times and plan for extra lead time in case of delays.
• Leverage Technology: Use tracking systems to maintain visibility over shipments and ensure compliance with temperature requirements.

Staying Ahead in a Challenging Climate

The logistics industry is evolving, with heightened demands and harsher winters reshaping how goods are transported. Understanding the complexities of temperature-controlled transport and partnering with industry leaders like XTL, businesses can safeguard their products and maintain customer trust.

Winter may bring challenges, but with the right strategies and partners, your supply chain can remain resilient and reliable. When it comes to temperature-sensitive goods, don’t settle for anything less than the precision and reliability of true temperature-controlled transport. Let XTL be your partner in navigating the complexities of winter logistics.

In the fast-paced world of food and beverage logistics, efficiency, reliability, and safety are non-negotiable. At the XTL Group, which encompasses our Transport, Logistics and Distribution divisions, as well as CBT Inc and Savoie Express Inc—we form a powerhouse alliance that delivers comprehensive solutions for food shippers. Together, we offer custom end-to-end supply chain services, seamlessly blending our strengths to meet the industry’s diverse needs.

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1985, XTL has been a trailblazer in crafting custom supply chain solutions. Boasting over 450 trucks, 1250 trailers, and 2.5 million square feet of warehouse space, our capabilities are expansive. Our services span dry and temperature-controlled over-the-road and intermodal transportation, logistics, and ambient warehousing. With state-of-the-art equipment and deep-rooted experience, we ensure smooth supply chain operations, maintaining the quality of fresh, frozen, and dry food products. 

CBT Inc has been a significant logistics provider for the food service giants as well as the top poultry and egg producers in southeastern U.S. since 1989. Operating out of Oakwood, GA, CBT complements the XTL offering by prioritizing exceptional customer service to the domestic U.S. market. CBT’s experience comes from years of familiarizing themselves with the various industry shipping and receiving requirements, time-sensitive shelf dates, weight limitations, and proper handling techniques. Their extensive carrier network ensures reliable capacity and on-time deliveries, establishing them as a trusted partner for food shippers.

Since 1964, Savoie Express has been committed to delivering excellence with every mile. With a fleet of over 40 trucks out of Manseau, QC, Savoie Express provides top-tier service that compliments XTL service regions while also extending the XTL reach further into eastern Canada. Becoming a part of the XTL Group fueled significant growth, doubling their fleet and enhancing service capabilities. Specializing in hauling perishable products across North America, Savoie Express’s dedication to partnership through service has been a cornerstone of their long-term success.

Solving Industry Challenges

At XTL, solving business problems for food shippers begins with understanding root issues and collaborating with all parties involved. We blend expertise, state-of-the-art equipment, and clear communication channels to quickly resolve problems. Our established network provides consistent capacity, crucial for maintaining the quality and timely delivery of food products.

CBT’s focus on building strong relationships and leveraging technology, ensures reliable capacity and on-time deliveries. CBT’s proactive approach to staying updated with industry trends and technology paired with extensive experience, has enabled them to stay competitive and agile while also bringing stability to fluctuating market conditions. This level of support has been instrumental in their customers’ success within their transportation departments.

Savoie Express remains steadfast in its growth objectives since becoming a part of the XTL Group. Doubling their fleet and recruiting dedicated drivers has enabled them to meet customer demands effectively, ensuring reliable service. Their unwavering commitment to never letting a customer down is vital in the perishable goods sector. Savoie Express always has a contingency plan to offer solutions for unexpected challenges ensuring deliveries are completed on time, every time.

Recent Achievements and Success Stories

In the past year, XTL has achieved AIB International accreditation in four of our nine distribution centers, with plans to expand this accreditation further. This milestone reflects our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of food safety and good manufacturing practices. By investing in new infrastructure and securing necessary accreditations, we provide our partners with room to grow, offering stable and long-term solutions.

CBT has made significant strides by joining the TIA Fraud Task Force to combat industry fraud and enhancing the carrier vetting process. These continuous efforts to create a positive work environment based on trust and respect have contributed to CBT’s growth and success.

Savoie Express’s proud legacy since 1964, combined with their recent growth, showcases their commitment to excellence. Their long-standing relationships and dedicated service have been crucial to their success. A prime example of their impact is their ability to adapt and maintain high service standards amidst industry challenges, solidifying their reputation as a dependable partner in the logistics of perishable goods.

Conclusion

The synergy between XTL, CBT, and Savoie Express exemplifies the power of collaboration in the logistics industry. By combining our unique strengths and an unwavering commitment to excellence, we provide comprehensive and reliable solutions for food and beverage shippers. This integrated approach ensures that supply chains remain efficient, safe, and adaptable, meeting the ever-changing demands of the industry.

Keurig Dr Pepper Canada takes over 100,000 sq. ft. of XTL Group’s new distribution centre to support growth and enhance customer service in Western Canada

Balzac, Alberta, July 22, 2024 – Keurig Canada Inc., doing business as Keurig Dr Pepper Canada (KDP Canada), announced today an expansion of its distribution capabilities through an agreement with XTL Group (XTL) for the lease of a 100,000 square foot space in their new warehouse in Balzac, just outside of Calgary. This strategic expansion is designed to significantly enhance the Company’s ability to service its growing customer base in Western Canada and, in part, supports the creation of 50 new jobs for Albertans. By strengthening its supply chain network and improving operational productivity, KDP Canada aims to support the increasing demand for its diverse product range and its ongoing growth.

Covering an impressive 474,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art facility, managed and operated by XTL Group, includes 40-foot clearance, 16,000 racking positions, over 400,000 sq. ft of bulk storage, 112 loading dock doors, 120 trailer parking spots and is C-TPAT certified, making it the ideal choice for preserving bottled beverages, coffee products, and small appliances.

Keurig Dr Pepper Canada’s operations from the new XTL distribution centre will begin in July 2024. Other terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.

Quotes

“In addition to expanding our already significant distribution footprint in Canada, the decision to establish our operations in this new distribution centre in the Calgary region marks a major milestone in our growth and innovation journey. This multi-million-dollar investment over the next five years underscores our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service to our customers in Western Canada. This new collaboration with the XTL team will also enable us to improve the flexibility and responsiveness of our operations from the Port of Vancouver.”

Carl Saba, Vice-President of Supply Chain & Operations, Keurig Dr Pepper Canada

“XTL Group has made a significant investment in Alberta’s economic sector with the creation of over 200 jobs since we first began operating here in 2008. The construction of this infrastructure will lead to an additional 50 jobs in handling, logistics management, and delivery services to serve tenant businesses. Our team is proud to provide world-class infrastructure to support the operations and initiatives of companies like Keurig Dr Pepper Canada that wish to establish a foothold in the Calgary region.”

Luc Francoeur, VP Sales, XTL Group

“We’re thrilled that Keurig Dr Pepper has chosen to invest in Alberta, making us a part of their Western Canada expansion. This is one more proof point that Alberta is the best place to do business. Our ongoing work to build Alberta’s economy means more jobs for Albertans in more industries.”

Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta

“Alberta’s government is proud to welcome Keurig Dr Pepper Canada to Alberta. Their decision to expand their distribution capabilities in Rocky View County represents a significant vote of confidence in Alberta’s economic resilience and strategic advantages. This multi-million-dollar investment underscores our commitment to fostering job creation and economic growth in Western Canada.”

Matt Jones, Alberta Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade

“We are honoured that Balzac was chosen for Keurig Dr Pepper’s first western Canadian location. The decision to join our growing and varied list of companies underscores the County’s commitment to fostering a supportive and thriving business environment and we look forward to seeing the positive impact and opportunities this expansion brings to our region’s economy.”

Reeve Crystal Kissel, Rocky View County

“Keurig Dr Pepper and XTL Group’s investment is a significant win for Alberta, creating more than 50 permanent new jobs and positioning Balzac as a distribution hub. Collaboration between Invest Alberta, Keurig Dr Pepper Canada, and Rocky View County supported their final decision with this strategic expansion of their operations. We are honoured to help the company better service their Western Canadian base while enhancing the Alberta economy with this high-profile group of brands.”

Rick Christiaanse, CEO, Invest Alberta

About Keurig Dr Pepper Canada

Keurig Dr Pepper Canada is a leading beverage company, with a portfolio of more than 70 owned, licensed, and partner brands and powerful distribution capabilities to provide a beverage for every need, anytime, anywhere. We hold leadership positions in categories including coffee, tea, soft drinks, juice and mixers, and have the #1 single-serve coffee brewing system in the country. Our innovative partnership model builds emerging growth platforms in categories such as premium coffee, energy, sports hydration and non-alcoholic beer. Our iconic brands include Canada Dry^®, Van Houtte^®, Keurig^®, Crush^®, Dr Pepper^®, Mott’s^® Clamato^®, Mott’s^® Fruitsations^®, Timothy’s^®, Atypique^®, and Snapple^®. Driven by a purpose to Drink Well. Do Good., our 1,500 employees aim to enhance the experience of every beverage occasion and to make a positive impact for people, communities, and the planet. For more information, visit keurigdrpepper.ca and follow us on LinkedIn. To learn more about our commitment to corporate social responsibility, visit keurigdrpepper.ca/corporate-responsibility.

About Invest Alberta

Invest Alberta attracts high-impact, high-value investments into Alberta, Canada by providing best-in-class concierge services for investors and companies. With investment advisors strategically positioned in key markets around the world, Invest Alberta works to remove barriers for businesses to start, scale, and succeed. Since 2020, Invest Alberta has supported the commitment of approximately $20 billion in investment and more than 26,000 new jobs for Albertans. For more information, visit investalberta.ca.

About XTL Group

Established in 1985, the XTL Group provides customers across North America progressive and customized end-to-end supply chain solutions that combine the key strengths of our 3 distinct service offerings: asset-based transport, logistics, and distribution. With a fleet of 500 trucks, 1300 dry, temperature controlled and specialized trailers with multi-axle configurations, 2.5 million square feet of warehousing space and an extensive network of partner carriers, our fully integrated supply chain solutions support the business needs of our partners and adds value to their core competencies. Our partners will benefit from our company-wide commitment to understanding and responding to their business needs in a safety-first and regulatory-compliant environment that delivers on-time results. XTL is C-TPAT, CSA, FAST, PIP & SmartWay certified, AIB Accredited, and has been named Trucking HR Canada’s Top Medium Fleet for the last two years. Visit www.xtl.com for more information.

The latest from Today’s Trucking’s annual Top 100 Canadian Fleets for 2024 showcased the resilience and innovation of the industry’s top performers, while highlighting shifts in the economic landscape as notable merges and acquisitions influenced rankings.

Coming in at #24, XTL has increased it’s position over the past several years reflecting our steady growth in all divisions. Since 1985, XTL has leveraged its expertise in truckload, warehousing, logistics, intermodal, and temperature-controlled transport to serve as a strategic partner for our valued customers.

It’s incredible to think back on how far we’ve come in the last 39 years; good things happen when you focus on service.

Looking forward, we remain committed to reliability and service excellence. In an industry where the landscape is constantly shifting, it’s important to build partnerships based on trust and longevity.  Learn how we can support your end-to-end supply chain today.

We’re thrilled to announce that XTL has been named one of Trucking HR Canada’s Top Fleet Employers for the 8th consecutive year!

This incredible achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence in every aspect of our operations. It’s a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and passion of every member of our team, and inspires us to keep raising the bar and setting new standards of excellence in the trucking industry.

Thank you to Trucking HR Canada for this honor. We’re proud to be recognized as a leader in promoting a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

Read Trucking HR Canada‘s press release below

_____________________________________

Trucking HR Canada announces Top Fleet Employers for 2024

OTTAWA, ON (April 10, 2024)— Trucking HR Canada (THRC), is pleased to announce 104 fleets have been named to our Top Fleet Employers list for 2024.

The Top Fleet Employers program is a national initiative that recognizes fleets that have HR policies and practices that meet the highest standards within the industry. It is not a competition, but a rigorous review process where applicants are evaluated based on multiple criteria. Fleets are assessed in these areas: skills development, workplace culture, employee engagement, recruitment practices, compensation, sustainability and innovative HR policies. Employees also play a role in providing feedback about their workplaces.

Top Fleet Employers meet THRC’s HR standards of excellence and are leaders in showcasing this industry as a great place to work. Employers who have been honoured with a spot in the program’s ranks for a minimum of five and ten years are awarded, Top Fleet Employer of
Distinction status.

“We are proud to see our list grow for the 11th year in a row,” says Angela Splinter, CEO, Trucking HR Canada. “Fleets from all regions, and of all sizes are represented in the program this year and we look forward to celebrating all the top fleets.”

The 2024 Top Fleet Employers will be recognized and celebrated at the 11th annual Awards Gala, which will be held at the Palais Royale in Toronto on October 17, 2024.

Gala tickets will be on sale soon. Watch our newsletter and social channels for an announcement. Tickets are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applications for the 2025 year of the Top Fleet Employer program will open end of fall 2024. Watch for information webinars this fall to provide employers with what they need to know before applying to the program.

For more information, please visit the FAQ page.

-30-

Trucking HR Canada is a national, non-profit organization, advancing modern HR solutions for the trucking and logistics workforce. We collaborate, partner, and work with a dynamic network including industry associations, government departments and industry  professionals to ensure Canada’s freight transportation network has the skilled workforce needed for today and into the future.