Canada plays a critical role in global food logistics, providing essential support for the movement of protein, seafood, dairy, and other staple products across borders. This extensive network relies on well-connected infrastructure, with cold storage facilities and distribution hubs ensuring that food products maintain quality and safety throughout their journey.
Cold storage infrastructure across Canada
Canada’s cold storage network includes 31 facilities with over 500,000 pallet positions, providing full-service support for the food industry. Facilities are strategically located near major ports in Vancouver, Halifax, and Montreal, facilitating the import and export of goods. These hubs are critical for businesses preparing goods for both domestic and international markets.
The network supports bonded warehousing, temperature-controlled storage, and transportation, including less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload (TL) options.
Strategic location and accessibility
Cold storage facilities in Canada are positioned to optimize access to key transportation routes. With locations near major rail lines, highways like Highway 401, and large population centers, these facilities support local distribution, national transit, and international trade. Proximity to Canada’s busiest international ports in Vancouver, Halifax, and Montreal further enhances connectivity for businesses seeking to import or export food products.
Four bonded facilities in Bayside (New Brunswick), Ingersoll (Ontario), Laval (Quebec), and Surrey (British Columbia) provide additional support by allowing businesses to defer duties and streamline customs clearance.
Supporting diverse food sectors
The cold storage network in Canada is designed to support a wide range of products, from protein-rich meats in Alberta to seafood from coastal regions. Facilities offer specialized services like blast freezing for meat and multi-temperature storage for dairy, meat, and seafood. Most sites are BRC-certified and approved for seafood and meat exports to major global markets, including China and Europe.
Compliance and regulatory management
Navigating Canadian food logistics involves adhering to strict regulatory standards. Cold storage facilities work closely with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to ensure products meet safety and quality requirements. This includes managing inspections, verifying load integrity, and ensuring compliance with retail specifications.
Integrated transportation solutions
Canada’s cold storage network is supported by an asset-based, nationwide LTL cold chain network. This integrated system connects customers domestically and internationally, using a fleet of refrigerated trucks and a series of BRC-certified terminals. This setup ensures efficient, temperature-controlled transportation of perishable goods.
Smaller vendors also benefit from consolidation services, which allow them to meet retailer specifications and access larger distribution channels. This approach helps businesses of all sizes maintain consistent quality and compliance.
Adapting to market needs
Canada’s cold chain network is designed to adapt to changing market demands. Facilities support businesses of all sizes, from large consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands to local exporters. With experience in seasonal logistics management, inventory strategies, and regulatory compliance, the network is positioned to support the evolving needs of the food industry.
Leave feedback about this