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Class 8 same-dealer used truck retail sales continued to climb in February, increasing 12% month-over-month, according to preliminary data from ACT Research.
“The market easily outperformed historical seasonality, which called for a 6% m/m increase,” said Steve Tam, Vice President at ACT Research.
However, different market segments showed mixed results:
• Auction activity posted a slight 2.2% increase from January.
Overall, preliminary February sales strengthened 7.9% from January.
“This growth is a testament to the resilience of truckers but is also somewhat counterintuitive given the current economic and political uncertainties,” Tam concluded.
Contrans Maintenance Group Honors Matt’s 25 Years of Service in Woodstock
Source: Contrans Maintenance Group
WOODSTOCK – Contrans Maintenance Group proudly celebrates Matt’s 25 years of dedication and service at its Woodstock shop.
Over the past quarter-century, Matt’s hard work, commitment, and expertise have significantly contributed to the success of the team. His unwavering dedication has left a lasting impact on colleagues and the company alike.
To mark this remarkable milestone, Tim, Maintenance Manager in Woodstock, had the honor of presenting Matt with a well-deserved award in recognition of his outstanding service.
Contrans Maintenance Group extends a heartfelt thank you to Matt for his professionalism and contributions, and looks forward to many more successful years together.
Volvo Unveils the All-New VNR: A Game-Changer for Regional and Urban Transport
Source: Volvo Trucks
Volvo Trucks introduces the all-new Volvo VNR, specifically designed to meet the demands of regional and urban delivery in North America. Built on a brand-new platform, this model redefines fuel efficiency, safety, and future-ready versatility.
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Enhanced Performance and Sustainability
With improved aerodynamics, an advanced powertrain, and Eco-roll technology, the new Volvo VNR delivers up to 7.5% lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
Unmatched Safety Features
Volvo Trucks reinforces its safety leadership with cutting-edge technology:
•Volvo Active Driver Assist for smart driving control
•Automatic emergency braking to prevent collisions
•Lane departure warning for enhanced driver awareness
•Cab-mounted side curtain airbags for ultimate protection
Future-Proof Technology
Engineered for all propulsion technologies, the Volvo VNR is ready for battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and renewable fuel solutions.
Designed in multiple configurations to meet the needs of regional and long-haul transport, the new Volvo VNR will be manufactured at the Volvo Trucks New River Valley Plant in Virginia, with sales launching soon.
Controle Routier Québec Forced to Halt Patrols on Quebec Roads
Source: TAT
The Tribunal administratif du travail (TAT) has ruled that road inspectors, facing significant risks in the line of duty, will no longer be able to patrol Quebec’s roads until their safety is better ensured. These officers have long been advocating for the right to be armed to protect themselves from the dangers of their profession.
While work organization is being reviewed in accordance with the ruling, Contrôle routier Québec (CRQ) is immediately suspending all unplanned roadside interventions.
CRQ has acknowledged the TAT’s decision on road inspectors’ safety, which follows a claim filed by the Fraternité des constables du contrôle routier du Québec (FCCRQ).
The office of Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault stated that Contrôle routier Québec (CRQ) will promptly adjust its intervention and monitoring strategies to ensure the continuity of its mission in regulatory enforcement and road safety.
In an effort to prevent and mitigate workplace health and safety risks, CRQ will analyze the ruling and determine the necessary measures in collaboration with the FCCRQ.
B.C. imposes tolls on U.S. trucks heading to Alaska in response to tariffs
Source: British Columbia government
The British Columbia government is introducing tolls on U.S. commercial trucks transiting through the province to Alaska as part of its retaliatory measures against newly imposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.
Premier David Eby announced the move Thursday, emphasizing that B.C. is standing firm against what he called an “unprecedented attack” on Canada’s economy. The legislation, set to be introduced soon, will also remove internal trade barriers with other provinces and prioritize domestic suppliersfor government procurement.
Eby stressed that B.C. must reduce its dependence on U.S. markets, ensuring structural changes in trade policy. The province has already removed certain U.S. products from liquor store shelves and will now require that all low-carbon fuel additives be produced in Canada.
Meanwhile, Ottawa has delayed further retaliatory tariffs until April 2, following indications that the White House may pause tariffs on some Canadian imports.
“The White House started a trade war we didn’t want, and we must answer with strength,” Eby said.
Leadership Transition at Contrans: Emmanuel Lamidon Steps in as Interim Leader
Source: Contrans Vrac
As Jean Michel Napert prepares to step down in the coming weeks, Contrans Vrac has announced that Emmanuel Lamidon will take over on an interim basis.
Additionally, Stephen Vasudevan will provide essential operational support, including managing customer relationships and coordinating loads. His expertise will help ensure smooth operations and facilitate a seamless transition.
“We are confident that this plan will ensure organizational stability and an efficient transfer of responsibilities. We appreciate your support for Emmanuel and Stephen and your continued commitment to the company’s success during this period of change.” – Contrans Vrac
Toromont CAT Expands with New Vaughan Headquarters and Halton Hills Distribution Centre
Source: Toromont CAT
Vaughan, ON – Toromont CAT is making a significant investment to enhance customer support and operational efficiency with the development of a new full-service Vaughan Branch and Head Office, which will replace its existing Concord campus. Additionally, the company is building a state-of-the-art 186,000 square-foot Distribution Centre in Halton Hills to increase parts distribution capacity across Eastern Canada.
The Halton Hills Distribution Centre is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2026, while the Vaughan facility is set for completion in mid-2027. These new facilities will improve service capabilities, optimize logistics, and provide even greater support for customers across the region.
Toromont CAT’s expansion reaffirms its commitment to growth, innovation, and superior customer service, ensuring continued success in the construction, mining, and power systems industries.
Airdrie, Alberta – The Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) has recognized Iqbal Gill, a driver at XTL Transport Inc., as the March 2025 Driver of the Month. Originally from India, Iqbal moved to Canada in 2013 with his family as a permanent resident and has since made Calgary, Alberta, his home.
He began his career in warehousing before transitioning to XTL Transport in 2017, hauling freight between Calgary and Edmonton. His dedication to safety and reliability quickly earned him recognition, leading to a promotion as a Costco shunter, then Lead Shunter, and a role on the Occupational Health & Safety Committee (OH&S).
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Iqbal takes pride in keeping his equipment in top condition and prioritizing safety at the depot. “I think it’s a good way to show others that we are professionals,” he says. For him, appreciation is essential, and he values XTL Transport’s culture of treating employees like family.
Proud of his journey, Iqbal Gill looks forward to continuing as a vital part of XTL Transport Inc. and contributing to the company’s ongoing success.
The 25 percent tariffs announced last night by US President Trump will devastate a trucking industry already suffering from the worst freight economy in 40 years.
“Widespread tariffs on our customers’ freight to US suppliers and consumers will have shocking effects on our membership and the overall supply chain. The longer these tariffs are applied, the more strain there will be on carriers, which will lead to job losses and permanent closures of fleets,” said Stephen Laskowski, CEO and president of the Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA).
Trucking moves most (70 percent by value) of Canada-US trade. In March 2024, the total value of Canada-US trade moved by all four transport modes totaled $77 billion.
In recent fleet surveys conducted by various trucking associations, carriers across Canada report that customers have already begun canceling orders in the weeks leading up to the tariffs, with declines ranging from 20 to 80 percent at some businesses in certain provinces.
As a result, carriers have already started laying off employees. In Ontario, for instance, as many as one in three fleets surveyed indicated layoffs—a number that is expected to grow in the aftermath of the tariffs.
CTA is calling on the Government of Canada to immediately implement achievable temporary relief for the trucking industry:
• Announce the immediate removal of the carbon tax, especially on the eve of another scheduled increase on April 1.
• Along with suspending the carbon tax, reduce or eliminate the federal excise tax on diesel—a tax that serves no useful policy purpose.
• Develop a trucking tax relief program through the Council of Ministers, which includes the premiers and prime minister, covering measures such as on-road provincial diesel fuel taxes, provincial trucking industry fees, and government procurement practices.
• Increase on-road meal allowance deductibility to 100 percent for truck drivers facing reduced demand for their services.
• Ensure that any relief packages, including work-sharing programs, are strictly available to payroll employees or independent contractors who have voluntarily opted into EI, preventing abuse by the underground economy and carriers violating labor and tax laws, as seen during the COVID wage subsidy programs.
The removal of the carbon tax alone would save a trucking company between $15,000 and $20,000 per truck per year. Small business owners with five trucks are facing $75,000 to $100,000 in extra costs due to the carbon tax. These financial pressures are exacerbated by current market conditions, where more carriers are forced to rely on the spot market for freight.
“We need an immediate short-term relief package that starts with tax measures, but we also need long-term planning to improve our productivity and efficiency,” Laskowski added. “The interprovincial trade barrier pilot is an excellent start, but with these tariffs in place, we must expedite all possible solutions to enhance the competitiveness of our sector right now.”
UAP Inc. Announces Proposed Acquisition of Benson Group Inc.
Exciting News!
UAP Inc. is pleased to announce its proposed acquisition of Benson Group Inc., a leading regional distributor of automotive and heavy vehicle parts, pending regulatory approvals.
This strategic partnership will allow both companies to leverage their strengths, expand their network, and enhance their ability to provide exceptional service and innovative solutions to customers across Canada.
Alain Masse, President of UAP, emphasized the importance of this acquisition:
“Benson shares our core values of customer service, reliability, and community support. Together, we’ll build on their remarkable legacy.”
The UAP team looks forward to welcoming Benson’s employees and working together to drive future success. Stay tuned for updates as this exciting opportunity unfolds!
