Freight forwarders play a vital role in global supply chains, coordinating the movement of goods across borders, modes, and continents. As international freight volumes into Canada continue to grow—particularly from non-U.S. origins—the importance of reliable domestic transportation on arrival has never been greater.

While air and ocean freight handle the long-distance journey, it’s the trucking leg within Canada that ultimately determines how smoothly freight reaches its final destination. This is where strong collaboration between freight forwarders and domestic logistics providers becomes essential. 

Why Airport Cargo Requires Immediate Action 

Air freight, in particular, operates on urgency.

Once shipments arrive at airports like Toronto Pearson International Airport, cargo must move quickly. Unlike ocean freight, airport cargo does not have the luxury of extended dwell time. Delays at this stage can impact delivery schedules, downstream distribution, and customer commitments.

A domestic trucking partner experienced in airport cargo understands:

• • • The importance of rapid pickup once freight is released
    • The need for flexible routing and delivery options
    • The value of proactive communication during time-critical moves

For freight forwarders, this level of responsiveness helps protect service levels and maintain confidence with customers.

Ocean Freight and Port Drayage Considerations 

While airport cargo often requires immediate movement, ocean freight presents its own challenges. Congestion at ports, limited dock availability, and scheduling constraints can all impact inland transportation.

Freight arriving through Canadian ports, including the Port of Montreal, still relies on dependable trucking to reach distribution centres, warehouses, or final delivery points across the country.

A domestic logistics partner with experience in port drayage and onward distribution helps freight forwarders manage these transitions efficiently and consistently.

The Importance of the Trucking Leg for Freight Forwarders 

For freight forwarders, domestic trucking is not just a final step—it’s a critical extension of the overall shipping strategy.

A strong trucking partner supports freight forwarders by:

• • • Moving freight quickly out of airports and ports
    • Providing flexible FTL and LTL solutions
    • Supporting cross-docking and warehousing needs
    • Coordinating final-mile and Canada-wide distribution
    • Communicating clearly and proactively throughout the move

When this leg runs smoothly, freight forwarders are better positioned to deliver on their promises to customers.

Collaboration, Not Competition

Domestic trucking providers are not competitors to freight forwarders—they are partners.

By working closely together, freight forwarders and trucking providers can:

• • • Reduce delays and congestion risk
    • Improve shipment visibility and coordination
    • Create smoother handoffs between international and domestic transport
    • Deliver a more consistent experience for shippers and consignees

This collaborative approach becomes increasingly important as shipment volumes grow and timelines tighten.

A Reliable Partner for the Final Mile in Canada

As international freight into Canada continues to increase, the need for dependable domestic transportation will only grow.

Freight forwarders who align with experienced Canadian trucking partners gain flexibility, responsiveness, and peace of mind—especially for time-sensitive air freight and high-volume inbound shipments.

At Wood-Hall Logistics, we specialize in supporting freight forwarders as the trucking and domestic distribution leg of international shipments. Our focus is on clear communication, reliable execution, and treating every shipment like it matters—because it does.

If you’re a freight forwarder moving freight into Canada, having the right domestic partner can make all the difference.

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.