Railway strike could put increased pressure on truckers across Canada [Video]

The Saskatchewan Trucking Association (STA) is the latest to sound the alarm over the impending railroad strike, saying it will put more demand on an already stressed industry.

A potential stoppage at Canada’s two largest rail companies is now just hours away. Unless deals are reached or the federal government steps in, rail service at both CN and CP Rail will grind to a halt just after midnight.

That could put even more stress on truckers.

Roughly 70 per cent of Saskatchewan’s imports are transported by rail with the remaining 30 per cent moved by truck.

“Our economic advantages, which are our exports … the trucking industry is proud to be part of that and move it,” STA executive director Susan Ewart said. “I don’t think that (truck drivers) can do it all alone.”

Ewart said the ability to provide aid may vary across the sector, depending on which companies can better weather the storm.

“A smaller carrier …