News release - CTOA - Canada Truck Operators Association

Association urges governments to monitor transportation impacts and consider targeted temporary relief if elevated fuel costs persist

Mississauga, ON, September 10, 2026:- The Canada Truck Operators Association (CTOA) is calling on federal and provincial governments to closely monitor the impact of rapidly rising diesel prices on small and mid-sized trucking businesses and Canada’s supply chain.

As of September 10, Canada’s volume-weighted average retail diesel price was approximately $2.49 per litre, according to Kalibrate Canada, adding significant new operating pressure for carriers already facing challenging freight conditions, rising equipment and insurance costs, and tight operating margins.

For trucking companies, particularly smaller fleets and owner-operators, increases in diesel prices are felt immediately at the fuel pump, while the ability to recover those costs through freight rates or fuel surcharges can take considerably longer.

“When diesel prices increase this quickly, trucking companies pay that additional cost immediately, but recovering it from customers may take weeks or may not be fully possible at all,” said Tejpreet Dulat, Director of Government and Public Affairs with the Canada Truck Operators Association. “For a small carrier operating 10, 20 or 50 trucks, even relatively small increases per litre can translate into substantial additional weekly operating costs.”

While fuel surcharges can help larger contractual operations manage fluctuations, CTOA says they do not eliminate the pressure facing many small and mid-sized carriers, particularly companies operating in competitive freight markets where rates cannot always be adjusted immediately.

Supply-chain costs can eventually reach consumers

CTOA cautions that prolonged increases in diesel prices affect more than trucking companies.

Trucks transport groceries, construction materials, manufacturing inputs, retail products and countless other goods across Canada. Although carriers may initially absorb some of the additional fuel expense, sustained increases ultimately place upward pressure on freight costs throughout the supply chain.

“We should not suggest that every increase in diesel immediately becomes a higher price for consumers,” Dulat said. “The trucking company often absorbs that pressure first. But businesses cannot absorb rapidly rising fuel costs indefinitely. If elevated prices continue, eventually some of those costs will move through freight rates and the broader supply chain.”

Long-haul and specialized trucking operations can face particularly significant exposure because tractors travel thousands of kilometres each week. Temperature-controlled operations can face additional fuel costs associated with operating refrigerated equipment.

Small carriers need particular attention

CTOA says the current situation reinforces recommendations recently submitted through its Budget 2026 Policy Brief, which calls for federal economic and transportation policies to better recognize the realities facing small carriers, owner-operators and growing fleets.

Among its recommendations, CTOA has called for:

Measures that help smaller carriers invest in fuel-efficiency, anti-idling, safety and operational technology,
Accelerated investment incentives for trucks, trailers and productivity-enhancing equipment,
A proposed Small Carrier Modernization Stream, providing cost-shared support for qualifying investments,
Transportation-specific support that recognizes indirect impacts from trade disruptions, reduced freight volumes, empty repositioning and equipment underutilization, and
Federal policy development that takes into account the limited working capital and administrative capacity of smaller transportation businesses.

CTOA believes these structural measures should remain part of the longer-term response while governments assess whether today’s exceptional energy-price conditions require more immediate assistance.

Targeted temporary relief should remain an option

If diesel prices remain at elevated levels, CTOA believes governments should be prepared to examine targeted and temporary relief for commercial transportation, particularly for small and mid-sized carriers.

Any intervention should be carefully designed to help maintain transportation capacity without unnecessarily distorting freight markets or creating long-term dependence.

“Canada needs a healthy and competitive trucking sector to keep its economy moving,” Dulat said. “We are asking governments to watch this situation closely. If elevated fuel prices become sustained rather than temporary, targeted relief for small and mid-sized commercial carriers should be on the table.”

CTOA will continue gathering feedback from carriers and owner-operators regarding the impact of fuel prices on operating costs, freight capacity and business viability.

About the Canada Truck Operators Association

The Canada Truck Operators Association represents small and mid-sized trucking companies, owner-operators, independent operators and professional drivers. CTOA advocates for road safety, responsible compliance, fair enforcement and practical transportation policies that strengthen Canada’s supply chain.

Media Contact
Jas Kaur, Canada Truck Operators Association
jas.kaur@thectoa.ca

CTOA calls for immediate customs clarity, targeted relief and protection from unrecoverable freight costs

OTTAWA, August 22, 2026: The Canada Truck Operators Association (CTOA) is calling for immediate customs guidance and targeted support for Canada’s trucking sector after Canada–U.S. trade negotiations ended without an agreement and new 50% U.S. tariffs took effect early Saturday.

The tariffs apply to approximately C$20 billion in Canadian exports, including selected dairy and alcoholic beverages, building materials, furniture, electronics, packaging, machinery, clothing and sporting goods.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced that Canada will match the U.S. tariffs “dollar for dollar” and introduce further support for affected Canadian workers and businesses. However, details concerning Canada’s counter-tariff product list, implementation date and treatment of goods already in transit have not yet been released.

CTOA recognizes the federal government’s responsibility to defend Canadian workers, businesses and national interests. Canada’s response must also protect the small to mid size carriers and owner-operators responsible for moving goods across the border and throughout the domestic economy.

“Small carriers and owner-operators are often the first businesses to feel the effects of a trade disruption, but among the last to be considered for relief,” said Tej Dulat, Director of Government and Public Affairs for CTOA. “When a shipment is cancelled, rejected or delayed at the border, the truck still has operating costs. The driver must still be paid, fuel has already been purchased, and the carrier may be left with detention, storage, redelivery and empty-mile expenses.”

CTOA is asking the federal government to:

Immediately publish the products covered by Canada’s countermeasures, their effective time, applicable tariff classifications and treatment of shipments already in transit.
Include small carriers and owner-operators in federal tariff-relief and business-support programs.
Recognize trucking losses arising from cancelled loads, reduced export volumes, detention, storage, empty repositioning, delayed payments and customer insolvencies.
Work with importers, exporters and customs brokers to establish clear responsibility for border-related costs.
Provide advance certainty before the federal four-cent-per-litre diesel excise-tax relief is scheduled to end after September 7.

Canadian carriers should not become the default financiers of customs disputes between governments, importers and exporters.

CTOA is advising carriers moving tariff-sensitive freight to obtain written instructions from importers or customs brokers, confirm responsibility for detention and redelivery costs, preserve shipment and border records, and avoid making independent representations concerning whether a customer’s goods are exempt from duties.

“Trucking cannot absorb every cost created by sudden changes in trade policy,” Dulat added. “Canada must protect its national interests while ensuring that responsible carriers, owner-operators and professional drivers do not become collateral damage in an escalating tariff dispute.”

CTOA will continue monitoring federal customs guidance, counter-tariff announcements, border operations and business-support measures. The association will provide further recommendations as official implementation details become available.

About the Canada Truck Operators Association

The Canada Truck Operators Association represents small and mid-sized carriers, owner-operators, independent operators and professional drivers. CTOA advocates for safe roads, fair and consistent enforcement, responsible business practices and public policies that recognize trucking’s essential role in Canada’s economy and supply chains.

Media contact:
Jas Kaur
Canada Truck Operators Association
jas.kaur@thectoa.ca

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National association says freight-cost relief must reflect the sector that moves most of Canada’s domestic freight and is overwhelmingly made up of small businesses

TORONTO, ON / August 11, 2026: The Canada Truck Operators Association (CTOA) is welcoming the federal government’s new $100-million freight rebate program to support Canadian steel producers, while calling on Ottawa to ensure Canada’s trucking industry is included in future tariff-relief and supply-chain support measures.

The federal program will rebate 50% of eligible freight costs for Canadian steel products shipped between provinces and territories by rail or marine transportation.

CTOA supports federal action to help Canadian industries respond to U.S. tariff pressure and strengthen domestic supply chains. However, the association says the announcement raises an important policy question: if the goal is to make Canadian products more competitive and improve interprovincial trade, why is trucking not included?

“Trucking is a critical part of Canada’s domestic freight system,” said Tej Dulat, Director of Government and Public Affairs for CTOA. “As the federal government works to protect Canadian industries from tariff impacts and strengthen internal trade, trucking should be part of the national supply-chain response.”

According to federal industry data, domestic freight in Canada moves primarily by truck. The trucking sector is also overwhelmingly made up of small businesses. In 2025, 83.4% of truck transportation employer establishments had fewer than five employees.

CTOA says this matters because small and mid-sized trucking companies, owner-operators, and carriers are already facing serious economic pressures, including rising operating costs, insurance challenges, equipment costs, border uncertainty, and tariff-related impacts on the industries they serve.

“When steel, manufacturing, construction, agriculture, retail, and other sectors face cost pressure, trucking feels that pressure directly,” Dulat said. “Carriers do not operate outside the economy. They are part of every supply chain Ottawa is trying to protect.”

CTOA is not opposing support for rail or marine transportation. The association recognizes that all modes play an important role in Canada’s transportation network. However, CTOA says federal relief measures must reflect how goods actually move across the country, including first-mile, middle-mile, and final-mile transportation by truck.

“Rail and marine are important, but most supply chains still depend on trucks at some point,” Dulat said. “Leaving trucking out risks overlooking the small businesses that connect factories, warehouses, ports, rail yards, construction sites, farms, retailers, border crossings, and communities.”

CTOA is calling on the federal government to consult directly with the trucking sector as it implements current freight-relief programs and considers additional support for other tariff-affected sectors, including lumber and forestry..

The association is also urging Ottawa to consider targeted measures that support small and mid-sized carriers and owner-operators, including freight-cost relief, fuel-cost support, insurance-cost discussions, supply-chain resilience funding, and practical programs that recognize the role of trucking in interprovincial trade.

“Canada needs strong steel, strong manufacturing, strong rail, strong marine transportation, and strong trucking,” Dulat said. “A resilient Canadian economy depends on every part of the supply chain working together.”

CTOA says it will continue advocating for drivers, owner-operators, small and mid-sized carriers, brokers, dispatchers, safety professionals, and transportation businesses that keep Canada’s economy moving.

About CTOA

The Canada Truck Operators Association is a national transportation industry association representing drivers, owner-operators, small and mid-sized carriers, fleet owners, brokers, dispatchers, and transportation stakeholders. CTOA advocates for road safety, fair rules, practical compliance, supply-chain resilience, stronger communication with government, and policies that reflect the realities of Canada’s trucking industry.

Media Contact

Canada Truck Operators Association
Email: info@thectoa.ca
Website: www.thectoa.ca

Association calls for decisive enforcement against unsafe, fraudulent, and chameleon carriers, while warning that one-size-fits-all compliance burdens could harm responsible small and mid-sized businesses

Mississauga, ON, July 23, 2026:- The Canada Truck Operators Association is calling for tougher, smarter, and more targeted enforcement against unsafe, fraudulent, and chameleon carriers, while urging governments to ensure that new compliance frameworks do not unintentionally punish responsible small and mid-sized trucking businesses.

CTOA says Canada needs stronger road safety, better inter-agency coordination, and real consequences for operators who deliberately evade safety, labour, tax, insurance, and compliance obligations. However, the association says enforcement must be built around the actual structure of Canada’s trucking industry, where most employer establishments are micro or small businesses.

“Responsible operators should be the first to demand action against bad actors,” said Tej Dulat, Director of Government & Public Affairs at CTOA. “Unsafe carriers, chameleon operations, and fraudulent operators put lives at risk, exploit workers, damage public confidence, and make every honest trucking business look suspect. They should be targeted decisively. But governments must also ensure that the response does not become a blanket compliance burden that only large fleets can afford to manage.”

According to federal industry data, 83.4% of employer establishments in Canada’s truck transportation sector are micro businesses with fewer than five employees, while 16.1% are small businesses. CTOA says any new inspection, audit, procurement, or compliance framework must be designed with that reality in mind.

“Canada does not have a shortage of rules,” said Dulat. “The challenge is making sure enforcement reaches the operators who are actually breaking them. Adding more paperwork for a responsible family-run fleet does not catch a chameleon carrier. It only makes it harder for a legitimate small business to survive.”

CTOA says responsible small and mid-sized carriers support safer roads and fair enforcement. Many of these businesses are family-run operations where owners are directly involved in dispatch, maintenance, hiring, insurance, payroll, safety, compliance, customer service, and daily operations. They serve local communities, regional routes, rural areas, cross-border lanes, and supply-chain needs across every province.

The association says stronger oversight must be paired with clear guidance, practical education, fair implementation timelines, and tools that help responsible operators comply.

“Compliance should not be a guessing game,” said Dulat. “If governments want stronger outcomes, then small and mid-sized carriers need clear expectations, practical support, and a fair opportunity to meet the standard. Enforcement must separate those who are trying to comply from those deliberately avoiding the law.”

CTOA is calling on Transport Canada, Employment and Social Development Canada, provincial regulators, workers’ compensation boards, procurement agencies, enforcement bodies, insurers, shippers, and industry stakeholders to build the next phase of trucking oversight around five principles:

Target unsafe and fraudulent operators through evidence-based, intelligence-led enforcement focused on chameleon carriers, repeat offenders, labour abuse, safety violations, and deliberate non-compliance.
Protect drivers and workers by ensuring labour standards, workplace safety, and fair treatment are enforced consistently across the sector.
Build practical compliance pathways for small and mid-sized carriers through clear guidance, education, realistic timelines, and support tools before penalties become the only point of contact.
Include small and mid-sized operators before frameworks are finalized, not after new rules are already designed around the largest fleets.
Measure success by safer roads and better compliance outcomes, not simply by inspection volume, paperwork generated, or penalties issued.

“Small and mid-sized carriers are not asking for weaker safety standards,” said Dulat. “They are asking for a fair system that targets bad actors while giving responsible operators the tools to succeed. Road safety, worker protection, and small-business survival are not competing goals. Canada needs all three.”

CTOA says it is ready to work constructively with federal and provincial governments, enforcement agencies, shippers, insurers, and other stakeholders to strengthen safety, protect drivers, improve compliance, and ensure small and mid-sized carriers have a real voice in national policy discussions.

“Canada’s trucking industry needs enforcement that actually works, and a compliance system built for the industry that exists, not only for the largest fleets in it,” said Dulat. “CTOA will continue to be a national voice for responsible small and mid-sized carriers who want safer roads, fair rules, and a level playing field.”

About CTOA

The Canada Truck Operators Association represents small and mid-sized trucking companies, owner-operators, dispatchers, drivers, and industry stakeholders across Canada. CTOA advocates for road safety, fair enforcement, practical compliance, driver wellbeing, worker protection, and policy grounded in the real operating conditions of Canada’s trucking industry.

Media Contact:
Canada Truck Operators Association
Government Relations Office
info@thectoa.ca
416.443.0042

Brampton session brings together Peel Police, TTSAO leadership, safety experts, insurance professionals and small carriers to focus on root causes, not blame

BRAMPTON, ON: The Canada Truck Operators Association (CTOA) says governments and policymakers must look beyond headlines and listen directly to the drivers, owner-operators and small-to-mid-size fleet owners who make up the backbone of Canada’s trucking industry.

Canada Truck Operators Association Brampton event May 2026 CTOA hosted a Member Information Session in Brampton focused on driver wellbeing, mental health, safety, cargo theft, training standards, fair enforcement, insurance risk, evidence-based road safety policy and the real operating pressures facing trucking companies.

The event brought together trucking operators, owner-operators, small and mid-size carriers, drivers, enforcement partners, training professionals, safety experts, insurance representatives and industry stakeholders for a practical discussion on how to strengthen the industry.

“Canada needs a serious conversation about trucking, but that conversation cannot only happen about operators, it must happen with operators,” said Tejpreet Dulat, spokesperson for CTOA. “Drivers and small carriers are often presented as the problem, but many are also victims of a system that needs stronger oversight, clearer rules, better training checks and fair enforcement.”

CTOA said the industry must not be painted with one brush. While the association supports enforcement against bad actors, it says responsible operators, drivers and companies also need fair process, practical policy and a seat at the table.

According to federal industry data, truck transportation in Canada is overwhelmingly made up of small businesses. In 2025, 83.4 per cent of employer establishments in the sector were micro businesses with fewer than five employees, while small establishments accounted for another 16.1 per cent.

“That means the people most affected by new policy, enforcement actions, insurance pressure and public narratives are often small business owners, family-run carriers, owner-operators and drivers,” Dulat said. “If we are serious about fixing problems in trucking, we need to listen to the people living the reality every day.”

A key focus of the event was the need to strengthen driver training standards and oversight. Philip Fletcher, President of the Truck Training Schools Association of Ontario, addressed the importance of proper training, road safety, professional readiness and public confidence in the commercial transportation sector.

Fletcher said stronger checks and stricter standards for driving schools must be part of the solution.

“When a driver goes to a training school, they trust the system to prepare them properly,” Dulat said. “When a company hires a driver with government-issued credentials and documentation, the company is also relying on that system. If training quality is inconsistent, then both the driver and the company can become victims of a larger failure. The government needs to look at the root cause.”

The event also featured Stefano Peca of Peel Regional Police, Commercial Auto Crime Bureau, who spoke about commercial auto crime, cargo theft trends, prevention practices, reporting procedures and how fleet operators can work more effectively with law enforcement partners.

CTOA said cargo theft is no longer only an industry issue. It affects drivers, carriers, insurers, shippers, consumers and the broader supply chain. The association called for stronger cooperation between operators, police, government and industry stakeholders.

During the session, CTOA welcomed British Columbia’s recent move to mandate outward-facing dash cameras for commercial trucks, calling it an important step for road safety, accountability and fair investigations. CTOA also suggested that Ontario and other provinces should review B.C.’s approach and consider similar measures, with proper privacy safeguards, consultation with industry and clear rules for how footage may be used. Dash cameras can help make roads safer, support investigations, protect the public and provide important evidence when a collision occurs.

Chris Wilkinson, CEO of Nordrux Inc., spoke about fitness for duty, occupational health, human resources considerations and drug and alcohol testing awareness in safety-sensitive transportation operations.

CTOA said driver mental health and wellbeing must become a central part of the national trucking conversation.

“Truck drivers work long hours, spend time away from family, face pressure from schedules, traffic, isolation, safety expectations and public judgment,” Dulat said. “If we want safer roads, we must also talk about driver wellbeing, mental health, fatigue and the pressures drivers face behind the wheel.”

Jamie Beaudoin, Risk Control Consultant, Transportation and Fleet with Intact Insurance, addressed transportation risk management, fleet safety and practical steps operators can take to reduce risk and strengthen safety practices.

CTOA said the Brampton session was intentionally designed to show a constructive path forward: safety, training, enforcement cooperation, driver wellbeing, dash camera technology, insurance risk management and evidence-based policy.

“Responsible operators support safety, compliance and fair enforcement,” CTOA said. “But responsible operators also deserve to be heard. Many small carriers are facing rising insurance costs, diesel prices, equipment costs, compliance pressure, repair costs and delayed payments. These businesses keep Canada moving, and they need practical solutions, not just public blame.”

CTOA said recent national media coverage has created an important opportunity for reform, but warned that reform must be balanced and based on real industry conditions.

“The easy thing is to blame everyone,” Dulat said. “The harder but more responsible thing is to find the root causes: training gaps, unclear rules, inconsistent enforcement, rising costs, pressure in the supply chain and lack of direct engagement with real stakeholders.”

CTOA is calling for governments and policymakers to engage directly with drivers, owner-operators, small and mid-size fleet owners, training institutions, enforcement partners, insurance experts and safety professionals before introducing new policy measures.

The association said it will continue collecting member feedback and developing recommendations on driver training, cargo theft prevention, mental health and driver wellbeing, fair enforcement, safety, insurance, operating costs, dash camera policy and supply-chain resilience.

“Canada’s supply chain depends on the people in this industry,” Dulat said. “If policy is made without drivers and small carriers at the table, the solution will be incomplete. It is time to listen to the real stakeholders.”

Event highlights trucking’s central role in Canada’s economy and reinforces the need for practical, real-world solutions across the industry

DOLLARD-DES-ORMEAUX, QC: – The Canada Truck Operators Association (CTOA) brought together more than 600 transportation and logistics professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders at a sold-out National Industry Appreciation & Information Session, marking one of the largest recent gatherings of Canada’s trucking sector.

The event convened stakeholders from Québec and Ontario for focused discussions on supply chain resilience, operational realities, safety, and the evolving needs of Canada’s transportation industry.

Trucking at the Center of Canada’s Economy

Frank Baylis, Canadian business leader and former Member of Parliament, emphasized the foundational role of trucking in the national economy.

Keynote speaker Frank Baylis, Canadian business leader and former Member of Parliament, emphasized the foundational role of trucking in the national economy.

“Trucking is not just a sector, it is the backbone of Canada’s economy,” said Baylis, highlighting the importance of long-term infrastructure investment and strategic planning to support national growth and competitiveness.

Government Leaders Emphasize Collaboration and Industry Engagement

Federal and provincial leaders underscored the importance of collaboration between government and industry stakeholders.

The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture, acknowledged the importance of a coordinated industry voice:

“A strong and organized industry voice is essential in ensuring that key challenges and opportunities are addressed.”

Peter Schiefke, MP, Chair of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Transport, reinforced the sector’s national significance:

“When trucking moves, Canada moves… This gathering reflects the strength of the transportation and logistics sector and its critical role in keeping our economy moving.”

Peter Schiefke, MP, Chair of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Transport, reinforced the sector’s national significance: Additional officials in attendance included MP Sameer Zuberi, MNA Brigitte B. Garceau, and Mayor Alex Bottausci, reflecting engagement across all levels of government.

From Challenges to Practical Solutions

The symposium featured two solution-focused panels addressing:

Managing Risk, Costs & Growth in Trucking: Insurance, Financing, AI & data-driven insights
Building a Safer Trucking Industry – Maintenance, Responsibility & Practical Solutions

Panel discussion Building a Safer Trucking Industry in Canada - Maintenance, Responsibility & Practical Solutions — Building a Safer Trucking Industry – Maintenance, Responsibility & Practical Solutions

Discussions focused on practical, real-world solutions, including:

The growing role of technology and data in managing risk and improving efficiency
The importance of preventive maintenance and strong operational discipline
Addressing driver well-being and ongoing workforce pressures
Strengthening long-term stability through better industry practices

A Ground-Level Perspective on Industry Representation

In opening remarks, CTOA emphasized the importance of ensuring that policy conversations reflect the realities on the ground.

“When trucking moves, Canada moves, yet the voices of the people operating on the ground have not always been fully heard at the national level,” CTOA leadership noted.

Tejpreet (Tej) Dulat “This industry is evolving, and our approach must evolve with it,” said Tej Dulat, representing CTOA leadership. “Businesses want clarity, workers want opportunity, and everyone wants to operate within a system that is fair, practical, and consistent. CTOA’s role is to help bring those realities into the conversation in a constructive and responsible way.”

Adapting to a Changing Industry

The event also highlighted broader changes shaping the transportation sector, including:

Shifting workforce expectations
Increased use of digital tools and technology
The need for approaches that reflect how today’s operators and businesses function

Participants emphasized that long-term workforce sustainability will depend on the industry’s ability to adapt while maintaining strong standards around safety and compliance.

A Sector That Powers Canada

With nearly 70% of goods in Canada transported by truck, the sector remains a critical pillar of the national economy and supply chain.

Participants reinforced the importance of:

Continued infrastructure investment
Aligning policy with operational realities
Maintaining strong safety and compliance standards
Supporting a diverse and evolving workforce

Looking Ahead

CTOA will continue to engage with policymakers and stakeholders across Canada to support a stable, competitive, and forward-looking transportation sector, with a focus on practical solutions, industry collaboration, and long-term sustainability.

Media Contact

Canada Truck Operators Association (CTOA)
info@thectoa.ca
www.thectoa.ca

CTOA noted that a coordinated approach across federal and provincial governments could further enhance the effectiveness of recent measures.

MISSISSAUGA, ON / April 14/ : The Canadian Truck Operators Association (CTOA) welcomes the federal government’s announcement to temporarily suspend the federal fuel excise tax on diesel and gasoline, calling the measure a constructive and timely step that will provide short-term relief to trucking operators facing renewed fuel cost pressures.

The federal government has indicated that the temporary measure will take effect on April 20 and remain in place until September 7, 2026. The suspension is expected to reduce diesel prices by approximately 4 cents per litre and is intended to help lower operating costs for truckers and businesses across key sectors of the economy.

CTOA raised concerns on March 30 regarding rising diesel prices, exceeding $2.39 per litre in parts of the Greater Toronto Area, and the impact on small carriers and independent operators still recovering from a prolonged freight slowdown between 2022 and 2025.

“We are encouraged to see this announcement align with concerns raised by trucking operators and industry stakeholders in recent weeks,” said Tej Dulat, spokesperson for CTOA. “CTOA has been actively highlighting the impact of rising fuel costs on small carriers, and this decision represents a constructive step toward addressing those pressures.”

“For many small carriers and owner-operators, every cent matters. This measure will provide meaningful short-term relief and signals that government recognizes the challenges facing an essential industry that keeps Canada’s economy and supply chains moving.”

Relief Comes Amid Fragile Recovery

While the measure is expected to provide immediate cost relief, CTOA emphasizes that many operators remain in a fragile recovery phase following several years of, Weak freight rates, Excess capacity, Rising insurance and maintenance costs

For smaller operators in particular, limited financial reserves and ongoing cost pressures continue to impact day-to-day operations.

“This is a positive and responsible step,” Dulat added. At the same time, many smaller operators are still stabilizing after several difficult years. We see this as an important first measure, and we look forward to continued engagement with government on practical ways to support sector stability.”

Ensuring Effective Impact

CTOA also noted that the effectiveness of the measure will depend on how efficiently fuel cost reductions are reflected across the supply chain.

To maximize the impact of this decision, it will be important that fuel cost reductions are clearly reflected at the pump so that operators and consumers can fully benefit, Dulat said.

Coordinated Approach Across Jurisdictions

CTOA noted that a coordinated approach across federal and provincial governments could further enhance the effectiveness of recent measures.

“We welcome the federal government’s leadership on this issue,” Dulat said. There may be an opportunity for provinces to consider similar short-term measures within their jurisdictions to further support small carriers and ensure more consistent relief across the country.”

Continued Focus on Industry Stability

CTOA is encouraging continued dialogue on additional targeted measures that can support small carriers and owner-operators, including:

Review and modernization of fuel surcharge mechanisms
Improved access to short-term working capital
Industry-government roundtable on trucking sector stability

“This is not about long-term subsidies,” Dulat said. It is about ensuring that small operators have the ability to remain stable and competitive during periods of cost volatility.”

Broader Economic Importance

Canada’s trucking sector plays a central role in the movement of goods across the country. Cost pressures in transportation can have broader impacts on supply chains, business costs, and affordability for consumers. CTOA will continue to monitor developments and engage constructively with policymakers and industry stakeholders to support a stable, resilient, and competitive trucking sector.

Media Contact

Canadian Truck Operators Association (CTOA)
📧 info@thectoa.ca
🌐 www.thectoa.ca

CTOA warns rising diesel prices, now exceeding $2.39 per litre in Toronto, are adding pressure to small carriers and independent operators already recovering from a prolonged industry downturn

MISSISSAUGA, ON, March 30, 2026: The Canadian Truck Operators Association (CTOA) is raising concerns over rising diesel prices, warning that increasing fuel costs are placing renewed pressure on a trucking industry that is still in the early stages of recovery following a prolonged slowdown from 2022 through 2025.

Recent increases in global oil prices, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affecting key energy supply routes, are beginning to translate into higher diesel costs across Canada. For the trucking sector, where fuel remains one of the largest operating expenses, this trend is creating immediate financial strain, particularly for small and mid-sized carriers.

Diesel prices in major markets such as the Greater Toronto Area have recently exceeded $2.39 per litre, levels not seen since 2022. For many operators, this represents a significant increase in day-to-day operating costs.

While larger carriers may have mechanisms to manage fuel volatility, smaller fleets and independent operators often have limited ability to pass on sudden cost increases, creating immediate pressure on margins and cash flow.

“Canada’s trucking industry has gone through several difficult years, and many carriers are only now beginning to stabilize,” said Tej Dulat, spokesperson for CTOA. “A sudden increase in fuel costs at this stage creates real pressure for businesses that are already operating on thin margins. This is not about avoiding normal market cycles, it is about recognizing the impact of external cost shocks on an essential industry.”

A Fragile Recovery at Risk

The current increase in diesel prices comes at a sensitive time for the industry.

Between 2022 and 2025, Canadian trucking experienced a prolonged period of weak freight rates, excess capacity, and rising operational costs. Many small carriers and owner-operators managed this period by reducing expenses, deferring investments, and operating with minimal financial reserves.

While early signs of stabilization have begun to emerge in 2026, the recovery remains uneven. Rising fuel costs now risk slowing that recovery, particularly for operators with limited ability to absorb additional cost increases.

The View from the Ground

“I run four trucks out of the GTA. Fuel has gone from about $1,600 to $2,300 per truck, that’s a $700 increase every fill. I am transporting essential goods and can’t stop operating, but after three difficult years, there is very little left to absorb these costs. My line of credit is already stretched.”
Jagroop, CTOA member, Greater Toronto Area

“I have been operating for 14 years, and have never seen two pressures hit at the same time like this. After years of low freight rates, diesel is now above $2.40 with no clear timeline for relief. This goes beyond normal market conditions, it is a situation operators cannot plan for or control.
Singh, CTOA member, Hamilton

Broader Supply Chain Impact

The impact of rising diesel prices extends beyond the trucking industry. Trucking plays a central role in Canada’s economy, with the majority of goods transported by truck at some stage of the supply chain. As transportation costs increase, those costs can flow through to businesses and consumers in the form of higher prices for goods and services.

Fuel volatility therefore has implications not only for carriers, but for overall supply chain stability and affordability.

CTOA Encourages Consideration of Targeted Measures

CTOA is encouraging the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario to consider practical, short-term measures to support industry stability during periods of fuel volatility:

Temporary diesel tax relief for commercial carriers
Targeted bridge financing access for small carriers and owner-operators
Review and update of fuel surcharge mechanisms
Industry-government roundtable on trucking sector stability
Short-term flexibility in compliance implementation for small carriers

CTOA emphasizes that the industry is not seeking long-term subsidies, but targeted, short-term support to help stabilize an essential sector during a period of exceptional cost volatility.

Looking Ahead

CTOA will continue to monitor developments and engage with industry stakeholders to assess the impact of rising fuel costs across regions and business segments.

The association remains focused on supporting a stable, resilient trucking sector that can continue to meet the needs of Canada’s economy and supply chains.

This is not just a trucking issue, it is a national supply chain and economic security issue that requires coordinated action

Mississauga, ON (March 17) : The Canadian Truck Operators Association (CTOA) is planning to launch a national freight security initiative aimed at addressing the growing problem of cargo, trailer, and equipment theft across Canada.

Cargo theft has become an increasingly serious threat to trucking companies, freight brokers, shippers, insurers, and the broader Canadian supply chain. According to industry estimates and cargo security reports, cargo theft across North America has escalated significantly, with losses reaching approximately $725 million in 2025, representing a sharp increase from previous years.

With over 70% of Canada’s domestic freight moved by trucks, rising cargo theft is not just an industry concern, it is a growing supply chain security issue that can impact businesses, consumers, and economic stability across the country.

Canadian law enforcement and industry stakeholders have also reported increasing theft activity in key logistics regions, particularly in major freight corridors such as the Greater Toronto Area and Peel Region, where hundreds of incidents have been recorded in recent years.

Organized criminal networks are increasingly targeting high-value shipments using sophisticated tactics such as fraudulent carrier identities, fictitious pickups, and coordinated cargo theft operations. These developments reflect a growing concern that cargo theft is evolving into a more organized and systemic challenge affecting the transportation sector.

In response, CTOA has begun facilitating information sharing among its members regarding theft incidents, suspicious activities, and emerging patterns, helping carriers and drivers respond more quickly to potential threats.

Building on these efforts, CTOA is engaging with industry stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, insurers, technology providers, and government bodies as it prepares to develop a national information-sharing and coordination framework aimed at preventing cargo theft and improving recovery of stolen freight and equipment.

“Freight and trailer theft is no longer an isolated issue affecting a few companies, it is becoming a broader supply chain security challenge,” said Tej Dulat, CTOA. “CTOA has started working with our members to share information and raise awareness, and we are preparing to help lead a coordinated effort with industry partners, law enforcement, and policymakers to address this problem.”

“This is not just a trucking issue, it is a national supply chain and economic security issue that requires coordinated action,” Dulat added.

As part of the proposed initiative, CTOA is exploring several practical measures:

Improving real-time information sharing between trucking companies, brokers, insurers, and law enforcement
Developing an industry alert system to notify fleets and professional drivers of stolen freight, suspicious pickups, and emerging threats
Strengthening collaboration with federal, provincial, and municipal authorities on cargo theft investigations and enforcement
Promoting security awareness and prevention training for fleets, drivers, dispatchers, brokers, and warehouse personnel
Encouraging more consistent reporting and improved data collection related to cargo theft incidents

CTOA believes that stronger coordination between industry participants and public authorities can significantly improve both prevention and recovery efforts.

“Canada’s economy depends on a secure and reliable trucking network,” Dulat said. “By working together and sharing information more effectively, the industry and government can take meaningful steps to protect freight, strengthen supply chains, and reduce the impact of organized cargo theft.”

CTOA is committed to playing a leadership role in bringing together industry and public stakeholders to address this growing challenge and will be engaging partners in the coming weeks as it advances this initiative.

Media contact: To request comment or information from CTOA, Please email info@thectoa.ca

OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 23, 2026, The Canada Trucking Operators Association (CTOA) is raising awareness about mounting pressures in Canada’s long haul trucking sector, as member carriers report driver shortages that could affect supply chain reliability in the months ahead.

Member fleets, brokers report that some carriers are operating with up to a 15 percent shortfall in driver capacity. Few industry leaders say it is becoming harder to recruit and retain qualified long haul drivers, increasing the risk of service disruptions and higher logistics costs. In Q3 2025, Statistics Canada reported 11,600 vacant positions for transport truck drivers, underscoring the need for sustained workforce solutions.

Workforce Under Pressure: Racism, Discrimination, and Driver Retention

CTOA has received reports from racialized and newcomer drivers and fleet owners of increased racism, including discriminatory remarks, online hostility, and concerns that administrative enforcement and compliance activity may be applied unevenly or perceived as targeting individuals based on race or newcomer status.

New Canadian drivers make up a significant part of Canada’s trucking workforce and help maintain supply chain continuity. Reports of hate messages, targeted rhetoric on social media, unfair public scrutiny, and perceived unequal enforcement are creating concern within the industry. These pressures can discourage people from entering the sector and contribute to drivers leaving the industry, worsening workforce shortages.

CTOA affirms that no one keeping Canada’s supply chain moving should face racism or hostility for doing their job. The Association is calling for a national, solutions focused effort that promotes respect, professionalism, and dignity for transportation workers across Canada, including clear expectations for fair and consistent treatment in administrative and compliance processes.

Broader Supply Chain Impact

If current workforce pressures persist, driver shortages are likely to deepen. That will strain the movement of food and other essential goods, reduce reliability in long haul logistics, and increase delivery costs across the economy. Those costs ultimately show up in higher prices for Canadians and greater uncertainty for businesses that depend on timely freight.

“If we keep losing drivers, the impact will be felt everywhere,” said Tej Dulat, CTOA. “Food and essential goods do not move without a stable workforce. When capacity tightens, costs rise and Canadians pay the price. Protecting the supply chain means retaining experienced drivers, ensuring fair compensation, and fostering a professional environment where every driver is treated with respect, dignity, and free from racism or harassment.”

A Call for Collaboration

CTOA is calling on the federal government, working with provinces and industry, to:

Investigate systemic and targeted racism affecting racialized and newcomer drivers, including reported concerns about uneven or biased administrative and compliance treatment, and the impacts on retention
Promote respect for transportation professionals, with zero tolerance for racism and harassment
Ensure compliance and enforcement processes are clear, consistent, and fair, with practical requirements that do not create perceptions of uneven treatment
Provide clear, consistent guidance for incorporated drivers and owner operators so legitimate small operators can enter and remain in the sector without uncertainty

Canada’s trucking industry remains resilient, but resilience requires stable policy, professional respect, and coordinated action to keep goods moving and costs under control for Canadians.

About CTOA

The Canada Trucking Operators Association (CTOA) advocates for the safety, sustainability, and prosperity of Canada’s transportation professionals and the supply chain they support.

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