- Key Takeaways
- Canada’s transportation sector is one of the strongest in the world right now, with a $648 billion GDP.
- According to Trucking HR, Canada currently has 18,000 vacancies for truck drivers.
- Different kinds of truck drivers exist, including OTR drivers, dry van drivers, and others.
The trucking industry significantly boosts Canada’s economy by providing a means of transporting supplies and goods to other companies or for personal use. With a $648 billion GDP, Canada’s transportation industry is currently one of the strongest in the world.
Over 120,000 trucks with US and Canadian licenses perform cross-border trade, and roughly 40,000 U.S. licensed drivers operate north-south traffic. According to Trucking HR,Canada currently has 18,000 vacancies for truck drivers.
There is much more to discover about trucking, so here are five things you should know whether you’re considering working in the field or want to learn more about it in general.
The Freight that Enters Businesses is Transported by Trucks
Businesses need to provide commodities and supplies in order to operate, and truck drivers bring these items to the businesses. Raw materials are transported all over the world by trucks. It is estimated that truckers move over 12 billion tons of cargo each year.
Truck drivers are accountable for more than just driving; they also must ensure that their cargo is safe and delivered on time. Additionally, it is essential to make sure the driver has sufficient credibility because the goods they will transport are valuable.
The Trucking Industry Is a Key Economic Contributor
Trucking industry plays a significant role in the Canadian economy. According to TSI Mag, it generates around $65 billion annually through its economic activities. The industry’s workforce is about 450,000 people – about 300,000 of whom work as truck drivers.
Canadian Truck Drivers Require Training First
It is crucial to note that truck drivers, like all other occupations, require education. Before working in the trucking sector or even getting behind the steering wheel, drivers must have a number of abilities and knowledge. Choosing the right driving course will assist drivers to understand the extent of their profession and enable them to gain additional skills and knowledge to boost their professional credibility when seeking employment.
There are Different Types of Professional Drivers
Many individuals are unaware of the various types of truck drivers. Some of these include :
- Long-Haul Drivers – Carry cargo across North America. These drivers are on the road for days or even weeks at a time.
- Dry Van drivers – Frequently drive single-trailer trucks carrying dry and non-perishable goods.
- Refrigerated Freight Drivers – Deliver perishable goods like food, meat and dairy products. These drivers must understand how to control the temperature in their trailer, monitor any temperature changes, and store the items appropriately to avoid spoilage.
There Is a Shortage of Truck Drivers
In light of a significant lack of drivers, the trucking industry is having trouble keeping up with demand for new drivers.
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Sources:
Network, T. T. (2020, March 24). Trucking Canada – Statistics & Facts. The Trucking Network Inc. https://thetruckingnetwork.ca/trucking-canada-statistics-facts/
Canada and US trucking Industry in 2022. – Avaal Technology Solutions. (n.d.). AVAAL. Retrieved November 3, 2022, from https://www.avaal.com/canada-and-us-trucking-industry-in-2022