Saint John, NB to Toronto Freight Shipping: The Backhaul Guide

Updated August 28, 2026

Distance
approx. 1,500 km
FTL transit
1-2 business days
LTL transit
2-4 business days
Pickup
Same day (GTA)

Backhaul pricing on the shortest Maritime-to-Ontario lane

Saint John is the closest major Maritime market to Ontario, and it sees a steady flow of eastbound freight from the GTA -- refinery-related shipments, retail goods, and industrial equipment. Every one of those trucks needs to head back west, which creates consistent backhaul capacity for New Brunswick shippers moving freight into Ontario.

Because the lane is shorter than Halifax or Dartmouth, transit times are the fastest of any Maritime-to-Ontario corridor we run.

LTL vs FTL from Saint John to Ontario

LTL suits smaller shipments -- roughly 1 to 10 skids -- and typically delivers in 2 to 4 business days.

FTL is the choice for full trailers or time-critical freight, typically delivering in 1 to 2 business days with a single dedicated truck and no terminal handling.

What moves on this lane

Industrial and manufactured goods, forestry and paper products, and general retail freight all move regularly from Saint John into Ontario. Reefer capacity is also available for temperature-sensitive product.

Shipmate picks up throughout Saint John and the surrounding Fundy region.

Ready to price your next load? Request a free estimate and a Shipmate specialist will respond with exact rates during business hours, or call (905) 508-6632.

Frequently asked questions

How long does shipping take from Saint John to Toronto?

FTL typically delivers in 1 to 2 business days. LTL usually takes 2 to 4 business days.

Is backhaul freight from Saint John cheaper?

Often, yes -- trucks returning to Ontario after an eastbound delivery create backhaul capacity that's frequently priced more competitively than a standalone westbound move. Request a quote for current pricing.

Do you serve the greater Saint John region, not just the city?

Yes, including the surrounding Fundy region and nearby industrial areas.

Ship this lane with Shipmate

Compare LTL and FTL pricing on the Saint JohnToronto lane, with dry van, reefer and flatbed equipment available daily.

Get a Free Estimate

Free quote — no obligation

Price your Saint John–Toronto freight.

Tell us what you’re shipping and where. A Shipmate specialist reviews availability and comes back with real pricing during business hours (Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST) — usually the same day.

  • Live carrier pricing — you pay the current market rate
  • Same-day pickup available across the GTA
  • One dedicated account manager, start to finish
  • Fully licensed & insured, with declared-value coverage

Prefer to talk it through? Call a rep now:

(905) 508-6632
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