Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is Canada’s busiest airport, for both passengers and cargo. As a key hub for international trade, Pearson handles thousands of shipments daily, ranging from fresh produce to automotive parts, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce goods. For businesses that need to move freight quickly and efficiently, understanding how Pearson airport freight pickups work is essential.

Why Pearson Matters for Freight

Pearson sits at the crossroads of global trade. Its proximity to major highways (401, 427, 409, and the QEW) makes it an ideal gateway for shipments moving across Ontario and into the United States. With daily cargo flights connecting to major cities worldwide, freight can be imported, exported, and distributed within hours.

How Freight Pickups Work at Pearson

1. Cargo Airlines and Forwarders
   Most shipments arriving at Pearson are handled by airline cargo terminals or third-party freight forwarders. Carriers such as Air Canada Cargo, FedEx, UPS, and international airlines have dedicated facilities where freight is offloaded, stored, and released to consignees.

2. Documentation
   Before freight can be picked up, all paperwork must be in order. This usually includes the air waybill (AWB), customs clearance documents, and any special permits (e.g., for controlled goods or food shipments).

3. Customs Clearance
   Shipments arriving from outside Canada must go through CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency) clearance. If pre-cleared electronically, freight can be picked up quickly. Otherwise, delays may occur until customs is finalized.

4. Pickup Process
   Once cleared, freight can be released for pickup. Trucking companies or local couriers typically handle this, but many businesses arrange their own pickup depending on urgency and shipment size.

Challenges with Pearson Freight Pickups

• Wait Times: Busy terminals can have long wait times for drives, especially during peak hours.
• Storage Fees: Airlines often charge storage fees if freight isn’t picked up within a certain window.
• Security Requirements: Drivers may need proper identification and authorization before accessing cargo areas.

Tips for Smooth Pickups

• Book in Advance: Some carriers require appointments for pickups, especially for larger shipments.
• Track Shipments: Use airline or forwarder tracking systems to confirm cargo availability before sending in a carrier for pickup.
• Work with Experiences Carriers: Partnering with trucking companies with trucking companies familiar with Pearson’s cargo terminals helps avoid unnecessary delays. At Wood-Hall Logistics, we have vast experience with airport pickups.
• Prepare Documents Early: Ensuring customs clearance and paperwork are ready reduce wait times and storage costs. 

How Wood-Hall Handles Pearson Airport Freight Pickups

At Wood-Hall Logistics, we provide dependable, on-time freight pickups from Pearson International Airport’s cargo facilities. Our team is experienced with the airport’s layout, procedures, and carrier terminals, allowing us to move quickly once freight is released.

We work closely with clients and their brokers or forwarders to ensure shipments are ready for immediate pickup—reducing delays and avoiding costly storage fees. Once freight is available, our drivers handle the rest, providing prompt delivery across Ontario and to key destinations throughout Canada and the U.S.

With a focus on clear communication, efficient scheduling, and consistent performance, Wood-Hall makes Pearson Airport pickups simple and stress-free for our customers.

Let’s talk logistics without the guesswork.

Contact us at operations@wood-hall.com or visit www.wood-hall.com to learn more about our airport cargo services.