Trucking, logistics employment down sharply as economy weighs on sector

Employment in Canada’s trucking and logistics sector fell by 30,500 positions in February 2026 compared with the same month last year, a decline of four per cent, according to new data from Trucking HR Canada (THRC).

Job losses were even larger among transport truck drivers, who saw a 5.5 per cent drop, or 18,000 positions, over the same period. Meanwhile, unemployment rates in the sector rose from 4.8 per cent in February 2025 to 5.2 per cent in February 2026, while the rate for drivers climbed to 5.7 per cent. Across all industries in Canada, employment remained relatively stable, increasing 0.02 per cent.

“The trucking and logistics sector continues to experience labour market changes during the current economic conditions,” said Craig Faucette, THRC chief operating officer. “THRC is actively supporting employers with labour market insights that inform strategic decisions, along with workforce solutions that help build a resilient, skilled workforce.”

The number of active job seekers in the sector increased to 40,200, up 3.2 per cent year-over-year, with 18,700 unemployed drivers actively seeking work, roughly the same as February 2025.