Ottawa : Once the backbone of Canada’s economy, truck drivers are grappling with a harsh new reality: plummeting wages, unpaid work, and a lack of support from both industry and government. A profession that once commanded respect and top-tier pay for skilled labor has seen a steep decline. Drivers who earned 36 to 38 cents per mile just four years ago now make as little as 30 to 33 cents, while local drivers’ hourly rates have dropped from $25–$28 to $20–$23. This erosion of income comes at a time when Canada’s minimum wage and salaries in other sectors are on the rise, leaving truckers struggling to keep up with the cost of living.
The challenges don’t end with lower pay. Many drivers face delayed payments from employers, and some have been left in the lurch by companies that shuttered without settling final paychecks. The lack of organization among Canada’s truck drivers has left them vulnerable, with little recourse to demand fair treatment. Politicians, meanwhile, have largely ignored the plight of these essential workers who kept goods moving during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring shelves stayed stocked and supply chains remained intact. The absence of a unified voice has made it easier for their struggles to be overlooked.
Despite their critical role, the situation for truck drivers continues to deteriorate. Companies exploit the lack of regulation and oversight, while drivers bear the brunt of an industry in flux. The dedication of these workers, who braved the roads during a global crisis, stands in stark contrast to the neglect they now face. Without intervention—whether through policy changes or collective action—the future of this once-proud profession remains uncertain, threatening not only the livelihoods of drivers but the stability of Canada’s supply chain.
The story of Canada’s truck drivers is one of resilience overshadowed by systemic failure. As wages shrink and job security vanishes, the question looms: who will stand up for the workers who keep the country moving?
