The Office of the British Columbia Container Trucking Commissioner (OBCCTC) has announced a 2.1% increase to the minimum regulated rates for all container truck drivers covered by the Container Trucking Act, effective July 1, 2026.
In 2023, the OBCCTC determined, following consultation, that annual rate increases tied to the consumer price index would provide certainty and stability for drivers and predictability for companies. In 2025, the OBCCTC reviewed the regulated rates with industry and committed to continuing the annual increases for at least the next three years. The 2026 rate increase reflects the 2025 annual average increase in the BC consumer price index, the benchmark the Commissioner committed to using for future rate updates.
“This increase will ensure drivers’ wages keep pace with increases in the cost of living and the cost of operating a truck” says Commissioner Glen MacInnes. “The new rates allow the drayage sector in the Lower Mainland to remain competitive with other jurisdictions and ensure that drivers and companies have fair and predictable wage increases.”
As per the new Minimum Regulated Rates:
- Company Drivers and Indirectly Employed Operators (IEOs) must be paid a minimum of $36.03 per hour1.
- Independent Operators (I/Os) must be paid a minimum of $75.05 per hour2.
- Trip-based I/O rates in the Lower Mainland will also increase by 2.1%.
The new rates will take effect on July 1, 2026, and apply to all drivers working for companies that move containers both to and from the Vancouver marine terminals and throughout the Lower Mainland. The appropriate rate order will be published as required by the Container Trucking Act and Container Trucking Regulation.
1 This is the minimum rate for drivers with 2,340 hours of experience. Drivers with less than 2,340 hours of experience will receive $34.56 an hour until they reach 2,340 hours.
2 This is the minimum rate for drivers with 2,340 hours of experience. Drivers with less than 2,340 hours of experience will receive $73.04 an hour until they reach 2,340 hours.
