Long-haul freight trucking remains the backbone of domestic and cross-border trade in Canada. Driven by strong retail sales, the continued growth of e-commerce, and the need to rapidly deliver industrial inputs, the sector has maintained its competitiveness despite volatile diesel prices and an ongoing shortage of qualified drivers.
Truckload (TL) carriers continue to dominate the market due to their ability to deliver large volumes directly, while Less-than-Truckload (LTL) services are gaining ground, fueled by the fragmentation of online orders. At the same time, the adoption of intermodal solutions, route optimization tools, and gradual investments in electric vehicles is setting the industry on a path toward more integrated and sustainable logistics.
These figures provide a data snapshot to assess the size, profitability, and fragmentation of the long-haul trucking sector.
Estimated total annual revenue generated by long-haul carriers in Canada.
Above the logistics sector average, supported by fuel surcharges and operational automation.
Evidence of high fragmentation due to low entry barriers and the prevalence of owner-operators.
By 2030, the sector is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of approximately 1.8%, supported by resilient domestic consumption and the resumption of private investment.
Carriers that focus on the gradual electrification of fleets, predictive route data analytics, and expanded value-added services—such as warehousing, customs brokerage, and logistics consulting—will be best positioned to increase their margins.
At the same time, competitive pressure from rail on major corridors, uncertainty over Canada–U.S. trade policies, and labor shortages will require constant strategic vigilance.
Investors and potential acquirers should prioritize operators with a diversified client base, secured fuel supply agreements, and a culture of innovation focused on reducing empty miles and continuously improving service quality.
These figures provide a data snapshot to assess the size, profitability, and fragmentation of the long-haul trucking sector.
Parlons-en. Notre équipe vous aide à structurer votre réflexion et à prendre des décisions éclairées, sans engagement.