Logistics companies form the backbone of the economy of Canada. These help in connecting businesses with a long distance between them, facilitating smooth trade, be it in Canada or outside.
Among such industry giants and specialized players, finding the right logistics partner may seem to be quite daunting. This blog delves into the top 10 logistics companies in Canada and explains their services and unique features.
Along the way, we’ll point out key aspects of Canada’s logistics industry, including multimodal networks, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on sustainability. With this handy guide, you’ll have the tools to choose the right company for your business. Navigate the road to seamless supply chains together!
What are the Key Features of Logistics Industry in Canada?
The logistics industry is the backbone of the economy in Canada, supporting both domestic and international trade. Here are some key features of the logistics industry in Canada:
1. Vast Geography and Connectivity
Large Land Area: Canada is the second-largest country in the world, with varied topography, which requires effective logistics networks to connect cities and towns.
Strategic Trade Routes: It is close to the U.S. (Canada’s largest trading partner) and to the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Canada has been a global hub for trade.
Key Infrastructure: Canada has an extensive network of railways, highways, ports, and airports supporting efficient goods movement.
2. Multimodal Transportation
Railways: Canada has one of the most efficient rail networks in the world, with freight rail services dominated by Canadian National (CN) and Canadian Pacific (CP).
Road Transport: Trucks are used for most domestic freight, and last-mile delivery solutions are available.
Air Freight: Strategic airports in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are used for high-value, time-sensitive shipments.
Marine Shipping: Ports in Vancouver, Halifax, and Montreal are important in international trade, especially with Asia and Europe.
3. Trade-Dependent Economy
Canada’s economy is export and import-dependent, and logistics needs to be efficient to support industries such as energy, agriculture, automotive, and technology.
The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) will allow for seamless cross-border logistics with its two main trade partners.
4. Cold Chain Logistics
As Canada’s agricultural and food processing industries continue to grow, cold chain logistics will be an important factor in moving perishable products such as seafood, meat, and dairy products.
There is also a significant demand in Canada for pharmaceutical cold chains to deliver medicines and vaccines.
5. Advanced Technology Integration
Increasing adoption of supply chain management software, IoT, AI, and blockchain to enhance transparency and efficiency
Use of real-time tracking systems for shipment visibility and predictive analytics for demand forecasting
6. Environmental Sustainability
Strong emphasis on green logistics to reduce carbon emissions, using fuel-efficient vehicles, electrification of fleets, and promoting rail and marine transport over the road.
Government regulations and initiatives, such as the Net-Zero Emissions by 2050 plan, are driving innovation in eco-friendly logistics solutions.
7. Labor Force and Workforce Development
Skilled labor is critical in warehousing, transportation, and supply chain management.
Challenges include addressing driver shortages and enhancing workforce training in a technology-driven environment.
8. E-commerce Growth
Rising e-commerce has created a demand for faster, more reliable delivery services and the expansion of fulfillment centers across Canada.
Companies such as Amazon and Shopify are transforming the face of logistics by raising the bar on speed and efficiency.
9. Seasonal and Weather Challenges
Harsh winters and extreme weather conditions in certain regions can disrupt supply chains, requiring contingency planning and resilient infrastructure.
10. Customs and Border Management
Efficient customs clearance systems and technologies, such as the Single Window Initiative, make international trade smoother.
These features show that Canada’s logistics industry is a blend of old strengths and new innovations as the country meets the challenges brought by a dynamic global trade environment.
How Is the Logistics Industry Evolving in Canada?
The evolution of the logistics industry in Canada is very significant and is highly influenced by technology, changed consumer demands, environmental priorities, and global trade dynamics. This is how the industry is evolving:
1. Integration of technology
Logistics industries in Canada are increasingly embracing technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain. AI has optimized routes, demanded predictions, and automated warehousing, whereas IoT allows real-time tracking of shipments for greater visibility. Blockchain increases the security and transparency of the supply chain, especially in international trade.
2. Rise in E-commerce and Last-Mile Delivery
With the advent of online shopping, companies are trying to focus on faster and more reliable last-mile delivery solutions. Micro-fulfillment centers, delivery drones, and same-day delivery services are revolutionizing urban logistics in a way that will fulfill consumer expectations for convenience and speed.
3. Focus on Sustainability
Canada is one of the leaders in carbon emission reduction, which has pushed companies to engage in green logistics. They are electrifying fleets, using biofuels, and increasing rail and marine transportation over the road.
Efforts also include packaging waste reduction and environmentally friendly warehouse operations for sustainability goals.
4. Advanced Warehousing Solutions
Warehousing in Canada is getting smarter and more efficient through the application of automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), robotics, and cold chain infrastructure.
Such developments are integral to inventory management in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, and agriculture. Moreover, inventory management software plays a crucial role in streamlining processes, while warehouses are being strategically placed closer to cities to reduce delivery times.
5. Investments in Infrastructure
Improvement of the Canadian government trade corridors through, for instance, the National Trade Corridors Fund is making it better.
Upgrade of ports, railways, and highways continues to increase logistics capacity and efficiency. Strategic investment in Arctic shipping routes opens up new opportunities in trade.
6.Cross-Border Trade Innovations
Improved customs processes like electronic documentation and the Single Window Initiative streamline cross-border logistics. Trade agreements such as CUSMA and CPTPP make supply chains in international trade with Canada’s key trading partners smoother, thus permitting growth.
7. Digitalization and Data-Driven Decision Making
The industry is using big data analytics for better decision-making and predictive insights. This includes optimizing routes, predicting supply chain disruptions, and inventory management. Digital tools have enabled end-to-end visibility that enhances operational efficiency.
8. Resilience and Risk Management
The pandemic has exposed vulnerabilities in supply chains, and companies are investing in risk management strategies.
Businesses are diversifying suppliers, increasing supply chain visibility, and adopting resilient logistics networks to mitigate disruptions.
9. Labor Shortage
The logistics industry faces a shortage of truck drivers and skilled workers. To solve this, companies are investing in workforce training, offering competitive wages, and exploring autonomous vehicles to reduce reliance on human drivers.
10. Urban Logistics and Smart Cities
Urbanization has led to an emergence of urban logistics hubs and smart city initiatives. This maximizes last-mile deliveries, reduces congestion, and improves traffic flows in cities.
Cities integrate logistics into urban planning with a view to enhancing their capacity to deal with metropolitan needs for faster deliveries.
11. Focus on Cold Chain and Specialized Logistics
Cold chain logistics is growing to support industries in healthcare and agri-food. The requirement for temperature-controlled transport for vaccines and perishable products is what is driving innovation within this specialized sector.
12. Collaboration and 3PL Growth
More businesses are using third-party logistics (3PL) to outsource their logistics, thereby leveraging the infrastructure and expertise of such providers.
Partnerships between logistics and technology companies foster innovation, enabling smarter and more efficient supply chains.
List of Top 10 Logistics Companies in Canada
1. DHL
DHL is one of the major players in the leading logistics companies in Canada. The company has been in business for over 30 years with its headquarters in Mississauga.
DHL Canada was established in 1977 and offers services that include integrated logistics, warehousing and fulfillment, transportation distribution, contract logistics, consulting, and management.
They serve diverse sectors including manufacturing, chemicals, healthcare, auto-mobility, energy, and retail. They just received a $100 million investment that improved their warehouse management system to integrate advanced technologies that can handle full-process inventory processing.
They support their logistics operations through an advanced call tracking system that guarantees visibility across all levels, while their international shipping services span over 220 countries, and this service encompasses an all-inclusive customs clearance system.
Founder: Adrian Dalsey · Larry Hillblom · Robert Lynn
Address: 1544 Johnston Rd, White Rock British Columbia V4b 3z8
Website: https://www.dhl.com/in-en/home.html
Services offered:
- Express Shipping and Delivery
- Freight Transportation (Air, Ocean, Road, and Rail)
- Warehousing and Distribution
- E-commerce Solutions
- Customs Brokerage and Clearance
- Cold Chain Logistics
- Supply Chain Management
- Real-Time Tracking and Monitoring
- Green Logistics and Sustainability Services
- Specialized Industry Solutions (Healthcare, Automotive, etc.)
2. UPS
UPS is one of the most established logistics service providers in Canada, with 62 facilities and 12,000 employees across the country.
Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Burlington, Ontario, UPS offers comprehensive logistics solutions including contract logistics, shipping, and cross-border services.
UPS caters to a diverse range of industries such as healthcare, SMBs, high-growth sectors, and international markets, and it excels in managing complex logistics requirements.
Its robust tracking system, along with the Quantum View app, makes it easy to manage all types of services, especially for big organizations.
UPS has well-trained employees who are working with innovative, customer-first solutions by collaborating with international vendors, ensuring time zone, language, and carrier network problems.
Founder: James E. Casey
Address: 318 21st Street East, Saskatoon SK S7K 6C8
Website: https://www.ups.com/us/en/home
Services offered:
- Contract Logistics
- Shipping and Freight Solutions
- Cross-Border Services
- International Shipping to 220+ Countries
- Quantum View Tracking System
- Supply Chain Management
- Customs Brokerage and Clearance
- Healthcare Solutions
- Small and Medium Business (SMB) Services
- High-Growth Sector Logistics
3. Fed Ex
Fed Ex is one of the most recognized companies for logistics, particularly in Canada, where it has fully mastered last-mile delivery and several tools to assist e-commerce businesses with shipping needs.
The company was established in 1981, with its head office located in Mississauga. It provides express shipping, international shipping, and industry-specific solutions, targeting industries like aerospace, healthcare, business, and e-commerce.
FedEx provides flexible, easy-to-use packaging options, such as self-sealing packages. They are specialized in last-mile shipping optimization, providing rescheduling and redirecting options for pick-up and delivery services.
FedEx also features an accurate real-time tracking system, which provides shipment visibility throughout the process.
The company specializes in packaging hazardous products like lithium batteries, offering expertise in shipping dangerous items such as firecrackers and toxic gases while adhering to international safety standards.
Founder: Frederick W. Smith
Address: 3803 56 Ave NW, Edmonton AB T6B 3R7
Website: Hhttps://www.fedex.com/en-ca/home.html
Services offered:
- Express Shipping
- International Shipping
- Last-Mile Delivery Optimization
- Packaging Solutions (Self-Sealing Packages, Specialized Packaging)
- Real-Time Tracking System
- Hazardous Materials Shipping
- Rescheduling and Redirecting for Pick-Up and Delivery
- Industry-Specific Solutions (Aerospace, Healthcare, E-commerce)
4. Yusen Logistics
Yusen Logistics is an established shipping company in Canada, with modern infrastructure, secure facilities, and a 150,000 sqm area of warehouse, making it one of the top logistics companies in Canada.
It was established in 1988 and is headquartered in Brampton, Ontario. Yusen Canada operates freight services, contract logistics, warehouse management, and customs brokerage in the healthcare, electronics, aerospace, and food packaged industries.
Yusen Logistics provides highly specialized shipping services, including direct in-store delivery from ports or distribution centers and fast order pick-up.
They offer temperature-controlled facilities for time-sensitive and cold chain shipments at competitive rates. Their operations are based on strict quality standards, which feature specialized packaging and custom labeling solutions.
Yusen ensures the safety of its supply chain through quality checks at all inbound and outbound logistical points and offers a wide variety of multi-modal and intermodal transportation services.
CEO: Hiroki Harada
Address: 261 Parkhurst Sq, Brampton ON L6T 5H5
Website: https://www.yusen-logistics.com/ca_en/
Services offered:
- Freight Services
- Contract Logistics
- Warehouse Management
- Customs Brokerage
- Direct In-Store Delivery
- Temperature-Controlled Facilities
- Specialized Packaging and Custom Labeling
- Quality Checks at Inbound and Outbound Points
- Multi-Modal and Intermodal Transportation
5. XPO Logistics
XPO Logistics is one of the top logistics shipping companies in Canada with a vast network of 756 service locations and 42,000 employees worldwide.
The company was established in 2012, and its head office is in Toronto, Ontario. XPO Logistics Canada provides a wide range of services: truck brokerage, LTL, global freight forwarding, intermodal and drayage, last-mile delivery, and managed transportation to retailers, e-commerce sites, and food and beverage companies.
XPO Logistics has one of the largest networks of drivers, trucks, and terminals in the Canadian logistics industry for LTL shipping and truck brokerage service. It has end-to-end digital visibility for the shippers through innovative technical solutions powered by data science capabilities.
XPO also has seamless interaction with the shipper and carrier and full automation capability with dynamic rerouting of pick-up and delivery services, with accompanying data-driven analytics to allow for the best possible pricing and product management.
Founder: Brad Jacobs
Address: 1250-1270 Humber Place, Unit 4, Ottawa ON K1B 3W3
Website: https://canada.xpo.com/en/
Services offered:
- Truck Brokerage
- LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) Shipping
- Global Freight Forwarding
- Intermodal and Drayage
- Last-Mile Delivery
- Managed Transportation
- Data-Driven Analytics for Pricing and Product Management
- End-to-End Digital Visibility
- Seamless Shipper-Carrier Interaction
- Dynamic Rerouting for Pick-Up and Delivery
6. Aramex
integrated warehouse management and competitive shipping rates for shippers and e-commerce retailers.
Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Mississauga, ON, Aramex Canada offers a range of services including express shipping, shipping services, small business solutions, and drop/shop and ship.
They cater to industries such as oil and gas, fashion, and small businesses. Aramex has extensive 3PL networks, and advanced warehouse facilities which ensure effective management of their inventory, optimal storage, and stock control.
Their premium logistical operations have made them leaders in the industry to offer flexible pick-up services, delivery services, returns management, and customer care.
Aramex also ensures compensation for damaged or lost goods. Their order tracking system has end-to-end visibility and real-time notifications.
Founder: Fadi Ghandour and Bill Kingson
Address: 5810 Ambler Drive #14&15, Mississauga ON L4W 4J5
Website: https://www.aramex.com/can/en
Services offered:
- Express Shipping
- Shipping Services
- Small Business Solutions
- Drop/Shop and Ship
- Integrated Warehouse Management
- Flexible Pick-Up and Delivery Services
- Returns Management
- Real-Time Order Tracking System
- Compensation for Damaged or Lost Goods
7. Canada Post
Canada Post is a postal service that has a long history and a great presence in the logistics industry in Canada.
Founded in 1867 and headquartered in Ottawa, the company is the leading postal service in the country and has ensured coverage for the most remote addresses.
To ensure that its postal operations are executed successfully, Canada Post relies on its extensive experience and innovative technology.
They include mailing, money services, document sharing, and small business mailing. Canada Post offers end-to-end visibility in real-time order tracking, international shipping, competitive rates for large-volume shippers, generation of shipping labels, and guaranteed customs clearance services.
In addition to the services above, they offer value-added services like custom labeling, parcel pick-up, and delivery optimization, in addition to effective returns management.
CEO: Doug Ettinger
Address: 2701 Riverside Dr, Ottawa ON K1A 0A1
Website: https://www.canadapost-postescanada.ca/cpc/en/home.page
Services offered:
- Mailing Services
- Money Services
- Document Sharing
- Small Business Mailing
- Real-Time Order Tracking
- International Shipping
- Competitive Shipping Rates for Large Volume Shippers
- Shipping Label Generation
- Reliable Customs Clearance Service
- Custom Labeling
- Parcel Pick-Up and Delivery Optimization
- Returns Management
8. DTDC
DTDC has been among the leading logistics companies in Canada for over 25 years, working from more than 10,000 locations worldwide.
DTDC Canada was established in 2011 and is headquartered in Mississauga, ON, providing international shipping to more than 240 countries. Their services include express parcel shipping, overseas freight, warehousing, and truck transportation.
DTDC in Canada offers customized solutions for warehouse fulfillment and shipping operations at competitive prices. Their warehouses offer facilities with 24/7 security management and temperature-controlled facilities that can ensure the safety of their products.
They will design pick-up and delivery solutions that will address specific requirements while using custom packaging options and applying automation to reduce the operation cost.
DTDC can become a reliable cross-border shipper with comprehensive offerings of international services with lower rates and comprehensive customs clearance services.
Founder: Subhasish Chakraborty
Address: 7454K Airport Rd, Mississauga ON L4T2H5
Website: https://canada.dtdc.com/
Services offered:
- Express Parcel Shipping
- Overseas Freight Services
- Warehousing Solutions
- Truck Transportation Services
- Custom Packaging Solutions
- Temperature-Controlled Facilities
- Pick-Up and Delivery Services
- Cross-Border Shipment Solutions
- Comprehensive Customs Clearance
9. DB Schenker
DB Schenker is one of the biggest shipping companies in Canada with more than fifty years of experience in the industry.
The company has a strong customer support system with over 90,000 employees at more than 2,000 locations worldwide. DB Schenker Canada was established in 1953 and has its headquarters in Toronto.
DB Schenker Canada provides freight forwarding, land transportation, contract logistics, lead logistics, and special products services. They serve all kinds of industries, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, fashion, marine, and perishables.
The diversification in their operations helps them offer customized solutions to any industry’s requirements. Schenker, their dedicated portal, offers shipment management, data analytics, and order tracking, thereby empowering customers with 24/7 support and proactive solutions.
Founder: Gottfried Schenker
Address: 122-5000 Miller Rd, Richmond BC V7B1K6
Website: https://www.dbschenker.com/global
Services offered:
- Freight Forwarding
- Land Transportation
- Contract Logistics
- Lead Logistics
- Special Products Handling
- Shipment Management (Schenker Portal)
- Data Analytics
- Order Tracking
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Proactive Solutions
10. Purolator Inc.
Purolator Inc. has over 50 years of experience in the logistics industry and provides comprehensive solutions for supply chain operations.
It was founded in 1960 and is based in Mississauga, Ont., Canada. Purolator Inc. offers services including integrated freight, reverse logistics, LTL, dangerous goods handling, tailgate delivery, and more.
The industries that Purolator serves include retail, e-commerce, industrial, telecommunications, healthcare, and small business. For entrepreneurs looking to grow, here are some inspiring small business ideas to explore. Purolator also offers global connectivity to over 210 countries, ensuring reliable logistics solutions worldwide.
It can monitor all of the shipments ordered, using a very comprehensive and effective order tracking system offered by Purolator Express.
It specializes in distinctive commodities and dangerous goods backed by teams and solutions comprising experts.
They also assure prompt next-day delivery and incorporate an efficient return system as per reverse logistics that ensures calibrating well the complete process for international shipments.
CEO: John Ferguson
Address: 5010 51 St, Lloydminster AB T9V0P4
Website: https://www.purolator.com/en
Services offered:
- Integrated Freight Services
- Reverse Logistics
- LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) Shipping
- Dangerous Goods Handling
- Tailgate Delivery Services
- Global Connectivity to Over 210 Countries
- Purolator Express Application for Shipment Management
- Specialized Packaging for Unique Commodities
- Next-Day Delivery Options
- Efficient Returns Management with Reverse Logistics
- International Shipment Solutions
How to Select the Best Logistics Company in Canada?
To find the best logistics company in Canada, several key factors should be carefully considered so as to match your business needs. This is a step-by-step guide.
1. Evaluate Your Logistics Needs
Before choosing your logistics partner, you will first have to assess the following requirements:
- Type of Services Needed: Do you require freight forwarding, warehousing, last-mile delivery, or cold chain logistics?
- Geographical Coverage: Will the company handle only domestic shipments, cross-border shipments, or global shipments?
- Industry Expertise: Look for providers with experience in your industry, such as retail, healthcare, or manufacturing.
2. Check the Company’s Reputation and Experience
- Track Record: Choose a company with a proven history of reliability and efficiency in logistics.
- Client Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews, case studies, and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction.
- Accreditations: Look for certifications like ISO or memberships in industry associations, such as the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA).
3. Assess Technology and Innovation
A great logistics company should embrace innovation for more efficiency:
- Tracking Shipments in Real-Time: Make sure they have shipment tracking for greater transparency.
- Automation: Check if their warehousing and delivery make use of automation.
- Data Analysis: Look for companies that employ analysis to make supply chains and foresee trends.
4. Access Their Transportation Network and Infrastructure
- Multimode Capability: Choose a firm that can handle transportation across road, rail, air, and sea.
- Warehouse Locations: Confirm that they have warehouses at locations near your operational centers.
- Fleet Size and Maintenance: A well-maintained fleet is a guarantee to meet your delivery time.
5. Compliance and Security Requirements
- Customs Expertise: When shipping internationally, ensure that the company is accustomed to customs regulations and their clearance process.
- Regulatory Compliance: Make sure that they comply with all transport laws in Canada, safety regulations, and environmental standards.
- Security: The firm needs to offer safe handling of merchandise, especially high-value or sensitive shipments.
6. Compare Pricing and Cost Transparency
- Competitive Rate: Request quotations from various firms with the view of comparing price quotations.
- Cost transparency: Be well assured that there is no further charge beyond the published fees. Ensure the quotation on warehousing, shipping, and clearing through customs is clear.
- Value for Money: Instead of making decisions based on lower quotes, make them on service quality.
7. Seek an Ability to Flex and Stretch
Choose a logistics provider to fit your changing business needs:
- Scalable Solutions: This should accommodate the variability in shipment volumes between peak seasons.
- Custom Solutions: Look for companies willing to shape their services according to your company’s needs.
8. Keep in mind Customer Service and Communication
- Responsiveness: Identify how responsive they are in response to inquiries and in resolving issues.
- Dedicated Support: Provide account managers to ensure full-time communication with the organization.
- Proactive Updates: They should provide updates regularly about shipment status and potential delays.
9. Environmental Responsibility
- Green Initiatives: Most Canadian companies today are moving towards sustainability. So choose logistics providers that are friendly to the environment, using electric vehicles or carbon-neutral shipping.
- Compliance with Environmental Regulations: Check if they are complying with Canada’s environmental regulations.
10. Test with a Trial Partnership
Before finalizing any long-term contract:
- Run a Trial: Engage with them on a small shipment to check performance.
- Measure KPIs: Measure the KPIs such as delivery time, cost efficiency, and customer service.
Conclusion
Choosing one of the best logistics companies in Canada is essentially finding a partner that is aligned with your specific needs, whether it is for reliable transportation, advanced technology, or industry expertise.
With options ranging from large-scale providers to specialized niche players, the key is to research, compare, and test their capabilities to ensure they can support your business goals.
The best logistics partner doesn’t just deliver goods—it helps streamline your entire supply chain, setting your business up for long-term success in Canada’s dynamic market.
FAQs
1. How important is technology in the selection of a logistics provider?
Technology is very vital for efficient logistics operations. Seek providers that offer real-time tracking, automated warehousing, route optimization, and data analytics to improve supply chain visibility and performance.
2. Are there sustainable logistics options in Canada?
Yes, many logistics industries in Canada are adopting sustainable practices, such as using electric or fuel-efficient vehicles, optimizing routes to reduce emissions, and offering carbon-neutral shipping options.
3. What can I expect from logistics companies in Canada in terms of pricing?
Pricing is dependent on the size of the shipment, distance, type of transport, and additional services such as warehousing or customs clearance. It is advisable to request quotes from multiple providers and ensure transparency in their pricing structure to avoid hidden fees.
4. How do logistics companies handle cross-border shipments from Canada?
Cross-border logistics providers are well-versed in handling customs documentation, tariffs, and compliance with trade agreements such as CUSMA. They frequently use advanced technology to simplify the customs clearance process and avoid delays.
5. How do I measure the performance of a logistics company?
Key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time delivery rate, shipment accuracy, customer service responsiveness, and cost efficiency are good metrics to measure the performance of a logistics provider.
