Though the latest numbers from the U.S. Department of Transportation indicate a significant increase in surface transportation trade between the U.S. and Canada and Mexico from 2009 to 2010, the value of North American surface trade remains below 2007 and 2008 levels. From 2009 to 2010, trade among North American Free Trade Agreement partners rose 24.3 percent, the largest year-to-year increase since the agreement took effect in 1994. U.S.-Canada surface transportation trade totaled $471 billion in 2010, an increase of 22.1 percent compared to 2009, while U.S.-Mexico surface Continue Reading

In response to Canada’s recently approval of a national biodiesel requirement, several organizations are urging the federal government to reconsider and put the brakes on the mandate that would take effect later this year. The Canadian Petroleum Products Insitute and the Canadian Trucking Alliance both have expressed doubt about the national renewable diesel mandate of 2 percent biodiesel and heating oil. The CPPI specifically warns that the government has not given itself adequate lead time to make the Continue Reading

In a move expected to boost eco-friendliness and jobs, Canadian officials announced a mandate that would require diesel to contain at least 2 percent biofuel content beginning July 1. Federal Environment Minister Peter Kent said such a rule would reduce greenhouse gas emissions related to transportation. Both government officials and environmental lobby groups praised the measure as a means of creating new jobs, protecting valuable resources and Continue Reading

Cross-border trading between the U.S. and Canada could get a little smoother thanks to efforts between Prime Minister Stephen Harper and President Barack Obama. The two intend to streamline the flow of goods at the border, that would both help the two countries as well as their customers. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has lauded the move as a necessary and welcome move. ATA staff met with U.S. Customs and Border Continue Reading

One Canadian province is making available $2 million to fleets and owner-operators provided the money is used to add aerodynamic components aimed at reducing emissions. Alberta’s Trucks of Tomorrow program is accepting applications through Dec. 31, 2011 for awarding rebates of up to $30,000 per operation to cover components such as auxiliary power units (APUs), skirts and fairings, or hybrid trucks. The program’s website addresses frequently asked questions, rebate requirements, Continue Reading

The proposed amendments to the hours-of-service provisions are feared because they could potentially shorten hauls, require more drivers, lead to a shortage or perhaps worse, make it easier to put less qualified drivers on the road. Not to mention the lack of overnight parking, congestion and delays in delivering goods particularly to rural areas. But what no one has mentioned, until now, is the impact on cross-border drivers. André Perret, who runs The Road-Scholar, a Hamilton-based fleet loss-prevention, safety and compliance services firm, says the required starts and stops will disrupt Continue Reading

According to the latest statistics published by Transport Canada, the country’s transportation safety initiatives are paying off. From 2007 to 2008, the country saw a 12 percent drop in deaths on its roads, marking the lowest death toll in nearly 60 years. With these improvements, Canada is on pace to reach its goal of a 30 percent drop in fatalities as compared to averages from a baseline period of 1996-2001 and 1998-2010. In 2008, there were 2,419 road user fatalities, down from 2,761 the previous year. Fifty-four per cent of fatalities were motor vehicle drivers, 20% were passengers and Continue Reading

The Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) has announced it will fund a study to determine what roundabout designs can support efficient trucking movement in the province. Generally, roundabouts are backed by civil engineers who find they help improve road safety and lead to more efficient traffic movement. The study will examine and recommend those configurations that don’t impede truck movement in the province’s municipalities. Government entities, associations or OTA members can request a copy of the research by Continue Reading

Ground transportation shipping rates for Canadian shippers fell slightly in October, according to the Canadian General Freight Index (CGFI). But the Base Rate Index excludes fuel surcharges, which officials say is on the rise and expect it to continue through the winter months. Compared to September, fuel surcharges increased by 6 percent to 13.77 percent of base rates, marking the first time in five months there has been an increase. CGFI officials say Continue Reading

Drivers of commercial vehicles not properly equipped to drive in winter weather could face fines and be denied entry into certain areas of the province, according to the British Columbia Trucking Association. Winter tires or chains are required for commercial vehicles from Oct. 1 to Apri. 30, wherever there is a sign that indicates ‘Use winter tires or carry chains beyond this point.’ As a result, enforcement officials will be stepping up checks. Drivers not in compliance with these safety rules could face fines of $128 and be forced to take alternate routes. Officials will in particular be targeting the Continue Reading