In today’s fast-moving supply chains, transload logistics plays a critical role in ensuring cargo moves efficiently between transport modes. Whether transferring freight from ocean containers to trucks, railcars, or warehouses, Metropolitan Logistics offers seamless solutions across Canada. From Toronto and Vancouver to Montreal, Halifax, Calgary, and Winnipeg, we provide trusted transloading and distribution services tailored to shippers, freight forwarders, and 3PLs.
What is Transload Logistics?
Transload logistics refers to the process of transferring goods between different transportation modes—such as ocean to truck, rail to truck, or combinations of all three. This service reduces costs, shortens delivery times, and optimizes supply chains. For Canadian importers and exporters, transloading is a vital link between ports, inland terminals, and final destinations.
Metropolitan Logistics specializes in designing customized transload solutions that integrate seamlessly with intermodal and warehousing operations.
Our Transload Logistics Services
Container Transloading
- Direct unloading of 20’ and 40’ containers.
- Efficient reloading to domestic trailers or railcars.
- Handling both palletized and loose cargo.
Cross-Docking & Distribution
- Streamlined movement between inbound and outbound trucks.
- Eliminates storage delays, ensuring fast turnaround.
Warehousing Integration
- Secure storage for short-term or long-term needs.
- Inventory management with real-time visibility.
- Linked with national distribution networks.
➡️ Learn more about our dedicated solutions here: Transload Services
Intermodal & Drayage Connections
Transload logistics is most effective when paired with drayage and intermodal services. Metropolitan Logistics provides container pickups, terminal transfers, and last-mile delivery to keep your supply chain connected from port to customer.
- Drayage Services: Reliable container trucking between ports, CN/CP rail yards, and warehouses. Explore Drayage Services
- Intermodal Logistics: Combining rail, truck, and ocean freight for cost efficiency and nationwide coverage. See Intermodal Logistics Solutions
Our Process – How Transload Logistics Works
- Inbound Cargo Receipt – Containers arrive at port or rail terminal.
- Unloading & Sorting – Goods are offloaded, inspected, and sorted.
- Mode Transfer – Freight is transferred to truck, rail, or storage.
- Warehousing (if needed) – Cargo stored until distribution.
- Outbound Delivery – Last-mile or long-haul transport to destination.
This structured process ensures cargo integrity, speed, and cost-effectiveness.
Benefits of Transload Logistics
- Cost Savings: Avoid empty container repositioning.
- Flexibility: Match freight with the best transport mode.
- Speed: Faster delivery to final destinations.
- Scalability: Handle seasonal surges and project cargo.
- Sustainability: Reduce emissions by optimizing mode combinations.
Cost of Transload Logistics Services
Pricing depends on cargo type, volume, and handling needs. Below is a general guide:
| Service | Typical Range (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Container Unloading & Reloading | $250 – $500 per container | Includes palletized freight |
| Cross-Docking | $5 – $10 per pallet | Based on volume & handling time |
| Warehousing | $15 – $25 per pallet/month | Short or long-term storage |
| Drayage (local container moves) | $150 – $400 | Varies by distance & port |
These ranges help shippers understand expected costs when planning for transload logistics in Canada.
Geographic Coverage
Metropolitan Logistics provides transload logistics solutions across Canada, including:
- Toronto & GTA – CN Brampton, CP Vaughan.
- Vancouver & BC – Deltaport, Centerm, Vanterm, CP Intermodal.
- Montreal & Quebec – Port of Montreal, CN Taschereau, CP Côte-Saint-Luc.
- Halifax & Atlantic Canada – Port of Halifax, CN Intermodal.
- Calgary & Edmonton (Alberta) – CN & CP inland terminals.
- Winnipeg & Manitoba – CN Symington Yard, CP Winnipeg Intermodal.
Why Choose Metropolitan Logistics?
- Integrated drayage, intermodal, and warehousing solutions.
- Nationwide presence for coast-to-coast coverage.
- Custom solutions tailored to industry needs.
- Transparent pricing and reliable scheduling.
- Proven expertise with manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, and more.
Conclusion & Call to Action
For shippers, freight forwarders, and 3PLs, transload logistics is the key to unlocking supply chain efficiency. Metropolitan Logistics delivers reliable solutions backed by expertise and a nationwide network.
📞 Call Metropolitan Logistics today at +1 (365) 829 5000
✉️ Email us at service@metropolitanlogistics.ca
Or request your free transload logistics quote online.