Outbound cross-border demand set the pace in February, keeping Canada’s spot market moving through Q1. Loadlink’s latest data shows that overall freight volumes increased 2% from last month, pointing to sustained demand through the quarter. Lane dynamics shifted by direction, with outbound cross-border demand picking up while inbound softened, putting carriers in a stronger position on priority outbound moves.
Truck availability tightened month-over-month. Loadlink’s truck-to-load ratio fell to 1.20 trucks per load from 1.37 in January, down 13%, signalling fewer trucks available relative to posted loads. The ratio was still 15% higher than February 2025’s 1.04, meaning more capacity remained in the market than a year ago. With outbound loads rising and equipment postings pulling back, carriers were in the driver’s seat, with more loads to choose from and stronger footing to negotiate.
Canadian Freight Index Highlights
· Month-over-month: Volumes increased 2% compared to January 2026.
· Year-over-year: Volumes decreased 13% compared to February 2025.
Cross-Border Highlights
Cross-border freight remained the largest portion of activity, accounting for 66% of postings from Canadian-based customers.
· Outbound loads (Canada → U.S.) increased 38% month-over-month. Down 2% year-over-year. Equipment postings fell 15% from January and were 7% lower year-over-year.
· Inbound loads (U.S. → Canada) decreased 16% month-over-month and dropped 32% year-over-year. Equipment postings fell 4% from January and were 7% lower year-over-year.
The gap between outbound and inbound activity was the widest seen in recent months, making cross-border lane planning a priority for both carriers and brokers in February.
Intra-Canada Freight
Domestic freight accounted for 33% of postings in February.
• Month-over-month: Loads within Canada decreased 2% compared to January.
• Year-over-year: Volumes were 5% higher than February 2025.
• Equipment postings were 13% lower month-over-month and 11% higher year-over-year.
With equipment postings higher than last year, domestic lanes remained well supplied in February, supporting steadier coverage heading into March.
Equipment Trends
Top equipment postings in February:
• Dry Vans: 56%
• Reefers: 21%
• Flatbeds: 20%
• Other: 3%
Truck-to-Load Ratio
The truck-to-load ratio in February was 1.20 trucks for every load posted on Loadlink.
• Month-over-month: Down from 1.37 in January 2026 (13% lower), reflecting tighter truck availability.
• Year-over-year: Up from 1.04 in February 2025 (15% higher).
The tightening trend that began in late January carried through the month, giving carriers a more favourable operating environment to secure top-paying loads.
February’s Direction Split Sets Up March Planning
February closed with outbound cross-border demand leading the market. With inbound demand softer and domestic freight steady, planning will focus on securing reliable outbound coverage early and maintaining return freight plans.
“We saw outbound demand accelerate faster than most expected in February. With fewer trucks available, it created real opportunity for carriers to leverage. For brokers, early outreach is key, as those who started coverage earlier on priority cross-border lanes were better positioned to secure consistent trucks.” said James Reyes, General Manager at Loadlink.
Loadlink continues to provide the visibility and insights members need to track market shifts in real time, respond quickly to changing lane dynamics, and make confident decisions as Q1 progresses.
About Loadlink Technologies
Loadlink Technologies is Canada’s leading freight matching platform. By connecting brokers and carriers, Loadlink helps businesses move freight efficiently and cost-effectively. Through innovative solutions, Loadlink supports the logistics sector by simplifying workflows and enhancing the capacity for freight movement across North America through our software.