CANADA CARTAGE ENTERS INTO AGREEMENT TO ACQUIRE COASTAL PACIFIC XPRESS (CPX)
2024 EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT SURVEY
WINTER DRIVING SAFETY TIPS
CANADA POST WORK STOPPAGE AND YOUR BENEFITS
RETIREMENT WEBINARS
As the year comes to a close, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your dedication to our company.
Wishing you a joyful, prosperous, and peaceful 2025!
Canada Cartage has signed an agreement to acquire Coastal Pacific Xpress (CPX) based out of Surrey, British Columbia.
Founded in 1986, CPX has grown to be one of Western Canada’s most well-known and reputable temperature-sensitive carriers They provide refrigerated full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL),
along with cold storage warehouses and cross-dock operations in Surrey and Calgary. They also provide a small brokerage service for any overflow of loads. The company has a mix of company drivers and owner operators, and almost 600 refrigerated trailer units
Like Canada Cartage, CPX provides services to customers in the grocery and food sectors.CPX’s Western Canada services in temperature-sensitive transportation is a great fit with our existing Speedee Transport business in B.C. and Alberta. Combined with Canada Cartage’s expertise in dedicated grocery and food deliveries, the acquisition of CPX creates a convenient and efficient national solution for customers and prospects requiring temperature-sensitive transportation
Subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, the transaction to acquire CPX is expected to close in December 2024.
A big thank you to everyone who took part in the 2024 Employee Engagement Survey! With an impressive 1,383 responses representing over 50% of eligible employees we ’ re thrilled by your engagement and the opportunity to hear from so many of you.
Your feedback is invaluable in helping us shape the future of our workplace. We are currently reviewing the results and look forward to sharing key insights, including top positive trends and areas for improvement. These findings will guide our efforts to enhance the employee experience.
In the new year, we plan to establish focus groups or teams to dive deeper into specific topics and drive meaningful changes based on your suggestions. Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to get involved your voice continues to guide our way forward!
Thank you for helping us build a better future, together!
Stay safe on the road this winter with these essential tips for truck drivers, covering everything from handling icy conditions to what to do if you get stranded
Slow down. Adjust your speed for slippery conditions; black ice is particularly hazardous. Avoid cruise control. Always maintain complete control of your vehicle.
Reduce speed at intersections. Approach icy or snowy areas cautiously
Plan ahead. Allow extra time for travel or postpone trips in severe weather.
Use low-beam headlights. They improve visibility and activate taillights.
Increase your following distance. It takes longer to stop on ice
Stay in the right lane. Use turn signals and pass only when safe.
Be cautious near bridges. They freeze faster than regular roads.
Stay put in bad conditions. If the weather worsens, consider stopping to avoid getting stranded
Keep your distance from snowplows. Avoid passing them in poor visibility.
Stay calm. Steer in the direction you want to go; avoid braking or accelerating suddenly
Abubakar Patel, Dispatcher, Mississauga, Ontario
Use threshold braking. Apply the brakes with just enough pressure to reach the "threshold" where the wheels are close to locking up but still rotating. This allows for better control. Declutch if you are driving a manual transmission.
Stay calm. Pull over safely and seek shelter if possible. Avoid overexertion. Cold can stress your heart and worsen discomfort from damp clothing.
Stay in your vehicle during a blizzard. Only leave your vehicle if help is nearby and it's safe
Use hazard lights. Turn them on and set up warning triangles if available.
Run the engine briefly. Run the engine every hour for warmth but keep the exhaust pipe clear and crack a window to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Stay warm. Use blankets and wear hats and scarves to retain heat.
Watch for frostbite and hypothermia. Keep moving your limbs to stay warm.
Look for help. Monitor for traffic or emergency vehicles.
Just wanted to drop you a note and thank you for the tremendous service provided to us by your dispatcher Abubakar He is pleasant, accurate, thorough and a good communicator Please hang on to this man!
Bob Rutledge Head Buyer & Director of Sales Tembec Lumber Inc.
Canada Cartage and Canada Life hosted webinars in November for all employees to provide guidance on retirement planning, including an overview of the Canada Cartage retirement plan These sessions provided employees with valuable insights into planning for their future
If you were unable to attend these sessions, you can find links to the webinars on Radius Hub under Events, or by clicking the links below.
Your Plan: Make the Most of It
Canada Cartage Financial Webinar Road to Retirement November 2024
Cargo thefts typically increase during the Christmas holiday period. Therefore, it’s crucial to implement measures to safeguard transport and warehouse operations.
Here are key practices for protecting cargo:
Always lock and seal loaded trailers and trucks, storing them in a secure, fenced area.
Avoid leaving loaded vehicles in non-secure locations like shopping center parking lots or truck stops. Regularly check and maintain camera and terminal alarm systems. Ensure outdoor lighting functions properly, especially from dusk to dawn.
Station security guards at any site where cargo is stored outside docks or warehouses.
Lock all power units and safely store keys with dispatch.
Verify that all gates at terminal and warehouse sites are functional and locked when unattended. For facilities that close during the holidays, ensure the last staff member leaving thoroughly checks, locks, and secures them.
Encourage drivers to be extra cautious during stops.
Prevent drivers and operations staff from disclosing cargo details to outsiders. High-Value / High-Risk cargo should be positioned within CCTV range and secured with rear doors, pin locks, and glad hands.
Treat every alarm as genuine and not a false alert.
Immediately report any suspicious individuals or vehicles near terminals to the police. Ensure all visitors are properly identified before allowing access.
This advice is particularly relevant for the 2024 Christmas season, from the evening of December 21, 2024, to the morning of January 2, 2025. Everyone needs to stay vigilant and collaborate during this time to ensure safety.
At this time, Canada Post is still under a work stoppage across Canada. Canada Cartage would like to remind members that our benefits provider, GreenShield, is still operational and not impacted by this action; however, plan members who rely on Canada Post to submit claims or pay for services could face postal delays.
To avoid any disruptions or delays, we encourage you to take the following steps:
Register for Online Services: GreenShield’s fully operational online services are available to support you every day
Given that over 94% of GreenShield claims are already processed online, we encourage you to use our online services to submit your claims and check your coverage for faster processing. Visit https://app.greenshieldplus.ca/en/sign-up to register.
Set Up Direct Deposit: If you currently receive claim reimbursements by cheque, we recommend signing up for direct deposit to avoid any delays caused by postal disruption and to receive your payments promptly.
If you have additional questions or require support registering for online services, the GreenShield contact center is available to help Monday–Friday from 8:30am-8:30pm EST at 1-888-525-7587.
Many people experience mood shifts with seasonal changes, but for some, these changes can lead to a serious condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) This type of depression typically begins in fall and can last through winter, though some experience it in spring and summer. SAD is thought to be caused by reduced sunlight exposure, which may disrupt your body’s internal clock. Family history also plays a role; about 13–17% of those with SAD have a close relative who has it.
Consider talking to your doctor if you often experience:
Excessive sleepiness or insomnia.
Chronic fatigue affecting daily tasks
Changes in appetite, particularly cravings for sweets or carbs.
Weight gain.
Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or guilt.
Irritability or social withdrawal.
Loss of interest in sex and physical contact
Around 2-3% of Canadians will experience SAD, with another 15% facing milder symptoms.
Those most at risk include:
Adults, especially women, are diagnosed more frequently.
People living in northern regions with less sunlight.
If you suspect you have SAD, consult your doctor to explore treatment options like:
Light Therapy: Daily exposure to a special light can help alleviate symptoms for 60-80% of people
Medication: Antidepressants may be effective for managing symptoms.
Counseling: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help change negative thought patterns.
Self-Care: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, good sleep, and maintaining social connections can also improve mood.
Spend more time outside during daylight.
Maximize sunlight in your home by opening curtains and rearranging furniture.
Incorporate physical activity into your routine.
Consider a sunny getaway, remembering symptoms may return after you return.
If you suspect you have SAD, the best course of action is to talk to your doctor. This will help rule out other causes and determine the best treatment for you.
Canada Cartage employees also have access to RBC Insurance Employee Assistance. This is available to all employees and eligible dependents.
To access resources by phone: We're here to help. You can call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, toll-free at:
English: 1-877-630-6701
French: 1-877-588-1299
There are counsellors who can help you in English, French or more than 140 other languages if needed.
To access online resources:
Plan members with health coverage: Sign in to our secure Online Group Benefit Solutions service, select "Access Now" under the Wellness & Employee Assistance banner.
OR
Download the RBC Insurance My Benefits app and sign in with your username and password. From the main menu, select Wellness Program > Life.
English user ID and password: rbceng
French user ID and password: rbcfr
Walmart’s “Lists” feature allows you to create and share an online shopping list with others. In this week’s scam, cybercriminals use Lists and malicious Google ads to steal your personal information and money.
This scam begins when you search for Walmart’s customer service page on Google. You’ll see a sponsored ad result that claims to lead to a page that provides Walmart’s customer service information. The
ad will direct you to a Walmart List page if you click it However, instead of containing normal shopping items, the list includes a phone number that appears to be for Walmart’s customer service team.
Both the ad and the Walmart List were created by Cybercriminals. You’ll be connected directly to a scammer if you call the number. The cybercriminal will ask for your personal and financial information and then attempt to scare you by saying that your account was used to transfer money illegally The scammer will then pressure you to transfer money into a Bitcoin account to prevent additional transactions If you do transfer the money, it will go directly to the cybercriminals!
Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to a shopping list swindle: Be wary of clicking on Google ads. Anyone can buy a sponsored ad on Google, including cybercriminals. Be suspicious of anyone forcing you to act quickly Scammers frequently attempt to trick you into acting impulsively Think before clicking on a link or providing your personal information, even on official websites Trust your instincts and be on the lookout for anything that seems suspicious.
Bryan Lacey, Dispatcher, based at our terminal in Regina, Saskatchewan, proudly participated in Movember again this year He grew an epic moustache, not just for the style points, but to raise funds for a cause that matters.
Movember supports more than 1,250 men’s health projects worldwide, tackling critical issues like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. They're challenging the status quo, revolutionizing men ’ s health research, and ensuring health services better support men when they need it most.
You can help support Bryan and the incredible Movember mission. You can contribute and learn more by checking out his fundraising efforts here: Bryan Lacey's Movember Page
Save money by taking advantage of exclusive discounts on various daily automotive expenses, including gas, car insurance, car maintenance, tires, car rentals, and new car purchases.
Employees can access priority pricing, seat selection and pre-sale offers on the latest and most popular theatre shows, sporting events and special events. Plus, Perkopolis offers discounts on movies, attractions, activities, and more.
Discounts and exclusive value-adds are available for fitness clubs, fitness equipment, dental, eye care, spa services, and nutritional supplements, to name a few. As a result, savings are available on everything needed to live a healthy lifestyle
Did you know that all Canada Cartage employees have access to Perkopolis, Canada’s leading provider of fully managed perk programs? By partnering directly with brands across North America, Perkopolis finds offers and benefits that save you money, with more than 5,000 exclusive perks for employees.
Exclusive discounts and special offers are available at a wide range of top retailers, including fashion, electronics, house & home, fitness, footwear, sports & outdoors, and even restaurants.
Employees get exclusive rates at over 400,000 hotels worldwide, discount flights, unique tour packages, airport transfers, car rental discounts, special rates on VIA Rail tickets and travel insurance packages.
Perkopolis members can get savings and value-adds on home, automobile, pet and travel insurance.
Employees can sign up using a Canada Cartage email. Visit www.perkopolis.com to learn more.
We have several open positions across Canada. We invite you to share these roles with your friends and networks who might be interested in these positions. IT Project Manager Mississauga, Ontario
For a listing of all open positions, visit www.drivecanadacartage.com
Reporting to the VP, Applications & Strategic Initiatives, the IT Project Manager will lead key projects for Canada Cartage that have a strong technology component. This will consist initially of a large multi-year transformational project that will benefit from an experienced Project Manager who can apply the rigor necessary to keep it on track The responsibilities will evolve to include other projects where technology plays a prominent role. We are always growing, always innovating and looking at leveraging technology to bring value. We are looking for someone who shares that same passion and would grow with us.
The Licensed 310T / 310J mechanic is responsible for servicing and maintaining company equipment by using standard “Best Practices”, and providing guidance to apprentices Responsibilities will encompass diagnosing mechanical issues, conducting repairs, and performing preventive maintenance tasks to keep our fleet in optimal condition.
APPLY HERE
The Licensed HET/Apprentice is responsible for servicing and maintaining company equipment by using standard “Best Practices”, and providing guidance to apprentices. Responsibilities will encompass diagnosing mechanical issues, conducting repairs, and performing preventive maintenance tasks to keep our fleet in optimal condition.
APPLY HERE
We are looking for talented and dedicated drivers who provide exceptional customer service to join our delivery fleet in Terrebonne We offer an excellent training program, specialized equipment and growth opportunities.
APPLY HERE
Have questions, comments or concerns? Do you have any ideas or suggestions to help us improve the business? Maybe you have a work-related challenge that you need help resolving? We want to hear from you.
Submit them confidentially to our Employee Voice program email at employeevoice@canadacartage.com. All emails received are held in confidence and will not be made public without your permission.
When you see a team member doing great work, let them know by sending them a thank you card or certificate. Each quarter, a team in each region reviews all submissions and recognizes those who have gone "Above and Beyond" to receive a $50.00 gift certificate Each winner is also eligible for the President's Award in January You can email your recognition, along with the reason why you nominated the recipient and the values they demonstrated, to recognition@canadacartage.com, or online at www.canadacartage.com/truenorth
Nominate someone now!
Don't forget to send in your photos to The Beaver! We may use your photos in upcoming editions of The Beaver, the eBeaver or even on social media!
Send your photos to thebeaver@canadacartage.com
The following employees received True North nominations from their peers for demonstrating our core values. Congratulations to all of our nominees, and thank you for being great ambassadors for Canada Cartage.
Company Driver Dave Byers was presented with a True North Above and Beyond award for demonstrating our company's values. Dave works out of our terminal in London, Ontario.
Resources
Warehouse
company's values.
Highway Dispatch Supervisor Mike Branston, right, presented West Highway Planner Mark Nichol with a True North certificate for demonstrating our company's values. Mike and Mark work out of our terminal in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Human Resources Coordinator Jamie Morris, left, and CCLS Branch Manager Paul Nelson, right, presented Warehouse Team Lead Inderjit Singh, middle, with an Above and Beyond True North award for demonstrating our company's values Jamie, Paul, and Inderjit work out of our fulfillment centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Director of Operations Michael Rubinfeld, left, presented Dispatcher Abubakar Patel with a True North certificate for demonstrating our company's values. Michael and Abubakar work out of our terminal in Mississauga, Ontario.
Safety and Compliance Supervisor
Company Driver Thai Tran was the Driver of the Month at our terminal in Edmonton, Alberta Thai was nominated by his peers for his great attitude and for sharing his driving knowledge with others
Home Depot hosted a celebration luncheon to recognize and show their appreciation for our drivers.
Director of Operations John Sherman, right, presented Administrative Assistant Laura Mackin with her 30 years of service award. John and Laura work out of our terminal in Oshawa, Ontario.
Seaway employees reached milestone years of service in 2024. Dock worker Bob Cousineau, left, reached 32 years in April Traffic Manager Allison Papineau, middle, reached 25 years in March, and Company Driver Randy Legue, right, reached 27 years in April
Director
Operations