The US tariffs introduced in 2025 raised costs and uncertainty for Canada–US trade: shippers rushed goods across the border before deadlines, then cut or re-routed volumes, while goods qualifying under CUSMA were largely treated differently from non-qualifying goods and sector tariffs hit steel, aluminum and autos hardest. For logistics companies, the result was volatile cross-border demand, more customs complexity and a push to diversify trade toward Europe and Asia.
Key takeaways
- Tariffs changed several times during 2025, so rules must be checked before every shipment.
- CUSMA qualification became critical: qualifying goods were generally treated more favourably.
- Sector tariffs on steel, aluminum and autos had the largest freight impact.
- Diversification toward Europe (CETA) and Asia (CPTPP) is supporting container volumes at Canadian ports.
What happened in 2025 (in brief)
- The US announced tariffs on imports from Canada, with different treatment for goods that qualify under CUSMA.
- Separate tariffs applied to sectors such as steel, aluminum and automobiles.
- Canada responded with counter-tariffs, later adjusting many of them.
- Rates, exemptions and deadlines changed several times during the year.
Because the details changed often and may keep changing during the 2026 CUSMA joint review, always confirm the current rules with your customs broker and official CBSA and US Customs and Border Protection notices.
Impact on freight
| Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| Cross-border trucking | Surge before tariff deadlines, then softer and more volatile demand |
| Rail | Changes in steel, aluminum, auto parts and forest product flows |
| Ports | More interest in routing trade to Europe and Asia through Canadian ports |
| Warehousing | Demand for bonded storage and inventory positioned on either side of the border |
| Customs | More classification and origin checks, more paperwork |
What Canadian shippers should do in 2026
- Confirm CUSMA eligibility for every product and keep certification of origin ready.
- Review tariff classifications with a licensed customs broker.
- Model landed costs with and without tariffs to plan pricing.
- Keep carrier options flexible. Use carriers with Canadian and US authority. See cross-border container shipping.
- Explore diversification: Europe through Montreal and Halifax, and Asia through Vancouver and Prince Rupert. See shipping from Canada to Europe.
- Watch the CUSMA review and trade negotiations. See what Canada–US trade talks mean for logistics.
Frequently asked questions
Do US tariffs apply to CUSMA-qualifying goods from Canada?
In 2025, goods that qualified under CUSMA were generally treated differently from non-qualifying goods, but sector tariffs could still apply. Check current rules with your customs broker.
Which industries were hit hardest?
Steel, aluminum and automotive were among the most affected, along with the freight that serves them.
How did tariffs affect trucking between Canada and the US?
Volumes surged before deadlines and then became more volatile, which made capacity and rates harder to predict.
Are Canadian ports benefiting from trade diversification?
Canadian businesses are expanding trade with Europe and Asia, which supports container volumes through Canadian ports.
Where can I find carriers for cross-border freight?
Start with carriers in the ContainerIntermodal.ca directory and confirm their US authority and bonded status.