The past decade has introduced multiple challenges for freight teams. Every delay in filling open roles reduces revenue, damages client relationships, and undermines team morale.
Tariff uncertainty stalls hiring
On February 1, 2025 the United States imposed a 25% tariff on most imports from Canada and Mexico, with energy products subject to 10%. Many forwarders paused recruitment to reassess budgets and operational costs.
Even small inflation increases create hold-ups
A modest rise in inflation often triggers extra budget reviews and salary approval steps, pushing final offer letters out by weeks.
Competing sectors attract talent
Canada’s healthcare logistics market is projected to grow by USD 2.34 billion by 2028. E-commerce freight demand is increasing at 14% per year through 2026. These sectors capture qualified professionals, leaving “freight forwarding jobs near me” postings with few applicants.
Elevated freight rates raise stakes
Supply chain disruptions and Red Sea rerouting have maintained high freight rates. Vacant roles tighten margins further, since resources and time are consumed while positions remain open.
Technical skills are scarce
APAC semiconductor shipments increased by 10-15% last year. Candidates with both technical expertise and freight experience, such as air export coordinator roles, are rare.
Extended processes deter candidates
The number of interviews per hire has risen by 42%, yet top candidates remain on the market for only ten days. Lengthy, multi-stage processes result in high dropout rates.
Why speed matters
Delays represent active decisions to wait for internal approvals or to proceed cautiously. In freight recruitment, speed determines success. Organizations that accelerate their process are more likely to secure the right candidate before competitors do.
Our full guide Speed Up Your Freight Hiring: The 5-Step Guide provides actionable steps to accelerate hiring without sacrificing quality.
Email hello@freightappointments.com with the subject “Send me the Speed Hiring Guide” to receive it as soon as it’s live.
