Crossing into Canada: Essential Guide for HGV Drivers

If you’re planning to take your truck across the border, you need more than a map. The paperwork, road rules and safety checks are different from the UK, and missing one detail can delay you for hours. This guide breaks down the steps you need to take, so you can focus on the road instead of the red tape.

What Paperwork Do You Need?

First thing’s first – you must have the right documents. A valid passport or NEXUS card is a must for the driver, and the vehicle needs a current registration and insurance that works in Canada. If you’re hauling cargo, you’ll also need a commercial invoice or a bill of lading that shows what’s inside the trailer. Some provinces require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your UK licence, so check the province you’re entering.

Customs clearance is another piece of the puzzle. Canada uses the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) system for heavy vehicles, and you’ll need a temporary permit if your licence isn’t recognized. Apply online through the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) before you leave. The application takes about 15 minutes and gives you a printable permit you can show at the checkpoint.

Know the Road Rules and Safety Checks

Canada drives on the right, just like the UK, but there are quirks to watch for. Speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour, and they can change quickly in rural areas. Keep an eye on signs, especially in provinces like British Columbia where limits drop from 100 km/h to 80 km/h on short stretches.

Weight limits differ by province and by bridge. Before you hit the road, look up the maximum axle loads for the routes you’ll use. Over‑weight trucks can be fined or forced to off‑load at a weigh station, which costs time and money.

Don’t forget the safety equipment. Each truck must carry a reflective triangle, a first‑aid kit, and a fire extinguisher that meets Canadian standards. Winter weather in Canada can be severe, so pack extra blankets, a shovel and enough fuel to reach the next service station.

Lastly, be aware of driver fatigue rules. Canada enforces strict hours‑of‑service limits for HGV drivers. You’ll need to log your drive time in a Electronic Logging Device (ELD) that meets Canadian regulations. Plan rest stops in advance – many truck stops near the border have 24‑hour facilities.

Crossing into Canada doesn’t have to be a headache. Double‑check your documents, respect the local road rules and keep your truck equipped for the weather. With a bit of preparation, you’ll be on the Canadian highways in no time, delivering your cargo safely and on schedule.