Episode 2: What happens when the trucking industry's wheels stop turning? It's a question most Canadians never consider, but every essential item in your home—food, medicine, clothing, fuel—arrived on a truck. Without the trucking industry, our way of life would grind to a halt. But what is the history of this industry we are so reliant on?

This second episode of the Parts for Trucks podcast takes you on a journey through a century of Canadian trucking history and reveals the remarkable story behind one of the industry's most enduring companies.

Key Topics Covered

• Evolution of the Transportation Industry: From canoes, corduroy roads, horse-and-wagon, and steam powered trains to diesel powered commercial trucks pulling 53 foot trailers, the transportation industry has evolved over the last 200+ years. 
• Impact of Historical Events: The Great Depression and World War II spurred infrastructure growth, boosting the trucking industry’s expansion.
• History of Parts For Trucks: Founded in 1919 as Scotia Garage, rebranded to Parts For Trucks in 1987, and expanded coast-to-coast with acquisitions in 2017 and 2022.
• Canada-US Trade Relations: The trucking industry’s growth through agreements like NAFTA, navigating tariffs and regulations, and its critical role in 90% of consumer goods transport.
• Canadian Identity: The pride in supporting a vital industry, fostering innovation, and contributing to Canada’s global reputation of resilience.

Resources Mentioned

• Book: 100 Years of Trucking in Atlantic Canada by Joel Miller, available digitally through Parts For Trucks.
• Parts For Trucks website: PartsForTrucks.com/podcast for episode access and additional content.

Guest Bios:

• Joel Miller: Author of 100 Years of Trucking in Atlantic Canada, commissioned by Parts For Trucks to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2019. 
• Andy Raymond: Former co-owner of Parts For Trucks, Andy joined the company in the 1970s, contributing to its growth through technological innovations, such as early computer systems, and the 1987 rebranding to Parts For Trucks. Alongside his brother Paul, he led the company with a team-oriented approach until its sale to the Miller family in 2017.
• Corey Miller: CEO of Parts For Trucks, Corey, alongside his brother Brett, acquired the company in 2017. Growing up in the tire business, he brings a deep respect for the heavy-duty industry and a commitment to making Parts For Trucks the easiest supplier to work with.

Connect With Us: Available on PartsForTrucks.com/podcast, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.

Disclaimer: The Parts For Trucks podcast is produced by Parts for Trucks, Inc for informational and entertainment purposes only. The content, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Parts For Trucks, Inc. Read more...

Visit PartsForTrucks.com/podcast for all links.