Canada Freight Rates

Truckload Rates in Canada – May 2025

Canadian truckload rates continued to recalibrate in April as post-tariff normalization set in and demand leveled across key lanes. Cross-border freight flows remain active but show early signs of softening, while domestic supply conditions are stabilizing after several months of capacity tightening. Below is the latest breakdown of spot rates across Canadian corridors.

Spot Market Rates

Intra-Canada Dry Van:
Spot rates declined again in April, extending the pullback that began in March. While domestic capacity remains somewhat tight due to reduced equipment purchases, overall demand has softened. Seasonal patterns are re-emerging, but price momentum has cooled as inventories normalize and the broader economy slows.

US to Canada:
Northbound dry van rates held steady in April after retreating from Q1 highs. Pre-tariff shipping surges have fully faded, and rates now reflect more balanced cross-border demand. Further weakness could emerge heading into Q2 if US consumer spending and manufacturing activity continue to slow under inflationary pressure.

Canada to US:
Southbound lanes experienced additional downward rate pressure in April. Newly adjusted tariffs and retaliatory actions are beginning to affect load volumes and pricing dynamics. While equipment availability is still stable, rising trade friction is adding uncertainty to forward-looking capacity and rate trends.

To see how Canadian rates change in the future, and for detailed analysis and forecasts or truckload, less-than-truckload, and intermodal, see ACT's freight & transportation forecast.