Canadians are preparing for significant increases in prices due to counter-tariffs, affecting various goods like American aluminum, toilet paper, furniture, and more. Additionally, the cost of semi-trailers used to transport these goods will also rise as a result of the tariffs.

Ocean Trailer, the primary seller of semi-trailers in Western Canada, is facing a challenge with a pending $45 million order for 600 trailers from U.S. manufacturers. The company is expediting the process to bring as many trailers across the border before a 25% Canadian counter-tariff on trailers and other items takes effect.

Chief Operating Officer Mack Keay of Ocean Trailer stated that the 25% additional cost would surpass their profit margin per trailer, leaving them with no alternative but to pass on the cost to customers. This move comes in response to the federal government’s announcement of dollar-for-dollar countermeasures on $27.6 billion worth of U.S. goods, initiated following the latest tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration.

Ocean Trailer may attempt to cancel some orders to mitigate the impact of the counter-tariffs. However, trailers already in production in the U.S. would need to be sold to American retailers or stored in the U.S. if they cannot be delivered to Canada by the tariff implementation date.

The Manitoba Trucking Association expressed concerns over the potential financial strain on businesses ordering semi-trailers from the U.S. before the tariffs were announced. With a significant portion of Canada’s semi-trailers originating from the U.S., the industry is facing uncertainties and increased costs due to the counter-tariffs.

The manufacturing capacity in Canada is insufficient to meet the sudden surge in demand for trailers post-tariff implementation. Keay emphasized that Canada’s domestic manufacturing capacity falls significantly short of what is required by the trucking industry.

The impact of the counter-tariffs on the industry is substantial, with the average cost of trailers expected to rise from $75,000 to approximately $95,000 due to the 25% tariff. Ocean Trailer branches are currently bringing in one to two trailers daily, reflecting the high demand for trailers in the region.

The looming shortage of trailers could lead to increased costs and challenges in transporting essential consumer goods. The industry is bracing for potential bankruptcies if the tariff war prolongs for an extended period, affecting both the trucking sector and related businesses.