Canada will target truck drivers as part of new draws aimed at specific occupations via its flagship Express Entry system.
Canada’s trucking industry has a chronic shortage of drivers.
The federal government has responded by including the job as one of the 82 to be targeted by new Express Entry draws.
Candidates need at least six months of continuous work experience in Canada or abroad within the past three years to qualify.
Immigration Minister Sean Fraser has engaged in consultations across Canada when deciding which jobs should be included in the new draws.
Truck driver, under National Occupational Classification 73300, is one of 10 occupations in the transport field to be included.
Opportunities for Internationally-Trained Truck Drivers in Canada
Here are some of the opportunities in Canada for internationally-trained truck drivers:
1. Long-Haul Truck Driving
Long-haul truck driving involves transporting goods over long distances, often across different provinces or even across the Canada-U.S. border. This role offers several advantages:
Lucrative compensation: Long-haul truck driving typically offers higher pay rates compared to other driving positions, considering the extended hours spent on the road and the distance covered.
Travel and exploration: International truck drivers can embrace the opportunity to explore the vast Canadian landscape while transporting goods to various destinations.
Cultural exchange: Interacting with people from different regions and experiencing diverse cultures can be a rewarding aspect of long-haul truck driving.
2. Local/Regional Truck Driving
If long periods away from home aren’t your cup of tea, local or regional truck driving might be the perfect fit. This type of driving involves shorter routes within a specific city, metropolitan area, or province. Consider the following benefits:
Home every night: Local or regional truck driving allows you to return home daily, offering a better work-life balance and the ability to spend time with loved ones.
Familiarity with routes: Over time, you’ll become well-acquainted with the local roads, traffic patterns, and delivery locations, making your job more efficient.
Predictable schedules: Local or regional truck driving often follows fixed schedules, allowing for better planning and personal commitments.
3. Freight Delivery and Specialized Hauling
Freight delivery and specialized hauling cater to niche market segments and require specific skills and expertise. Here are a few areas where internationally-trained truck drivers can find unique opportunities:
Temperature-controlled transport: Companies in the food industry require drivers skilled in handling temperature-sensitive cargo, ensuring the freshness and quality of perishable goods.
Hazardous materials (Hazmat) transport: Truck drivers with specialized training and certifications can transport hazardous materials safely, following strict regulations and protocols.
Oversized load transport: Hauling oversized oroverweight loads, such as construction equipment or modular buildings, requires drivers with experience in handling and securing large, unconventional cargo.
4. Owner-Operator Opportunities
For truck drivers looking to take control of their own destiny, becoming an owner-operator can be an enticing option. By owning and operating your own truck, you can enjoy the following advantages:
- Increased earnings potential: As an owner-operator, you have the opportunity to negotiate higher rates and keep a larger portion of the profits.
- Flexibility and independence: You have the freedom to choose your own routes, work schedules, and clients, allowing for greater work-life balance and autonomy.
- Business ownership: Owning your own trucking business opens up avenues for expansion, establishing partnerships, and potentially employing other drivers.
5. Driver Training and Certification Programs
If you’re an internationally-trained truck driver seeking to work in Canada, it’s crucial to understand the country’s licensing requirements and undergo the necessary training and certification. Here’s an overview:
- Recognize your foreign credentials: Research the requirements for transferring your international driver’s license to a Canadian equivalent. Provincial and territorial regulations may vary, so ensure you comply with the specific guidelines of your intended province.
- Enroll in a driver training program: If your international license is not recognized or requires further validation, consider enrolling in a Canadian truck driver training program. These programs offer comprehensive training, familiarize you with local regulations, and help you gain the necessary skills to excel in the Canadian trucking industry.
- Obtain the appropriate licenses: Once you’ve completed the training program, you’ll need to obtain the necessary licenses and endorsements required by your intended province. This may include a Class 1 or Class A license for operating commercial vehicles.