Early morning at the Ambassador Bridge, where rows of trucks from Canada and the United States inch toward customs booths. With President Trump’s recent executive order imposing new tariffs on Canadian goods, the trucks at this key crossing are feeling the ripple effects.
Since the announcement, trucking companies report longer wait times and stricter inspections at the border. Shippers are scrambling to adjust delivery schedules, while carriers weigh the rising costs of tariffs into freight rates.
Industry analysts say costs are being passed down the line:
- Higher border fees and paperwork delays
- Rerouted shipments to avoid congested crossings
- Increased freight rates to cover tariff expenses
For drivers, the changes mean unpredictable schedules and tighter margins. “Every extra hour stuck at the border cuts into my earnings,” says one long-haul trucker navigating the delay-prone corridors.
Trade experts note that both countries have a lot at stake—auto parts, agricultural products and consumer goods rely on efficient cross-border trucking. As talks continue, carriers are investing in digital tracking and planning tools to stay agile.
Looking ahead, the trucking industry is watching negotiations closely. While new tariffs add pressure today, many hope a breakthrough in talks will smooth the road for one of North America’s busiest trade arteries.
Reference(s):
Tariff war between U.S. and Canada affects trucking industry
cgtn.com
