Trucking Companies That Go to Canada and Share Common Traits with Industry Leaders

If you're considering a career in trucking or looking to start a trucking company, it's worth taking a closer look at the industry leaders that operate in Canada.

One of the common traits among these leaders is their ability to adapt to changing regulations and technological advancements, such as the implementation of electronic logging devices (ELDs) and autonomous vehicles.

Canadian trucking companies are also known for their commitment to driver safety and well-being, with many offering competitive pay and benefits, as well as training programs to help drivers improve their skills.

Companies like Purolator and TFI International have successfully expanded their operations into the Canadian market, leveraging their expertise in logistics and transportation to serve a diverse range of customers.

To haul freight into Canada, your company must be set up with the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) by applying for a CBSA-issued carrier code, a four-character unique identifier used to identify you as a carrier.

A CBSA carrier code is a must-have for any trucking company that wants to transport goods into Canada. You'll need to determine if you need a non-bonded or bonded code to proceed with the application process.

Non-bonded carriers are restricted to transporting goods only as far as the first point of arrival in Canada, while bonded highway carriers are permitted to transport in-bond goods beyond that point.

Before applying for a carrier code, you'll need to have printed barcodes available to attach to all bill of ladings (BOLs). This is a requirement for the PARS (Pre-arrival Review System).

Applying for a carrier code can be a straightforward process, but it's not uncommon for companies to get stuck on the details. If you're not sure where to start, it may be helpful to seek guidance from a professional.

If you're planning to ship goods to Canada, you'll want to choose a trucking company that has experience crossing the border.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services offers over 70 years of experience in trucking services, including shipping to Canada.

Swift Transportation has a dedicated team that handles cross-border shipping to Canada, making it a great option for those who need to ship goods frequently.

Schneider National has a network of routes that span across North America, including a strong presence in Canada, making it a reliable choice for trucking services.

Canada Cartage is a Canadian trucking company that specializes in regional and national transportation, including shipping to the US.

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The largest trucking companies have a few key characteristics that set them apart from the rest. They're not trying to please everyone, and that's what makes their business work.

FedEx and UPS, for example, primarily ship parcels that are 150 lbs or less.

They have a clear understanding of what their ideal customer needs and wants.

Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings employs 28,000 people, which is a massive team by any standard.

Old Dominion Freight Line is a leader in environmental sustainability, which is a key differentiator in the industry.

XPO Logistics uses highly-advanced, innovative technologies to improve efficiency, allowing them to stay ahead of the competition.

Some of the largest trucking companies specialize in valuables such as computers and glassware, because they know their target market appreciates the extra care.