Canada’s Parcel Network Faces Turmoil as DHL Workers Walk Off the Job
Tensions boil over between DHL Express Canada and 2,100 Unifor members, raising alarm over parcel delays and sparking a wider labour debate.
The delivery trucks are parked. The warehouses stand still. And the tension between DHL Express Canada and Unifor just turned into a full-blown national strike.
At the heart of the conflict? A proposed pay structure that union leaders say amounts to “more work for less pay.” In response to a lockout triggered just past midnight Sunday, 2,100 workers—including couriers, truck drivers, and warehouse staff across seven provinces—officially went on strike.
Workers Locked Out, Strike Ignites Over Pay Dispute
Talks between DHL Express Canada and Unifor had been dragging since last year, with progress reportedly stalled on several key issues. The flashpoint came after DHL served a lockout notice—an apparent attempt to gain leverage ahead of a looming June 20 deadline, when new federal laws will ban replacement workers in legal strikes and lockouts.
Unifor President Lana Payne said the company’s pay proposal would leave many workers worse off, forcing them to drive long hours without fair compensation.
A Bigger Battle: Replacement Workers and New Labour Laws
But this strike isn’t just about wages. It’s becoming a test case for new federal legislation. The union is accusing DHL of training replacement workers in advance—potentially undermining the incoming law. In a letter to Parliament, Unifor described the move as a direct challenge to the spirit of the updated labour code.
If confirmed, DHL could face steep fines: up to $100,000 per day if they violate the replacement worker ban.
Still, DHL maintains that its contingency measures are legal and insists it remains committed to bargaining in good faith. A spokesperson said the company had offered a 15% raise over five years.
What’s at Stake? Parcel Deliveries, Worker Safety, and Even F1
The strike’s ripple effects could be widespread. DHL Express Canada supports major clients like Temu, Lululemon, and Siemens. The union has warned that even the Canadian Grand Prix could face disruptions, as DHL handles logistics for the global event—though race officials clarified that its official partner is DHL Global, not the Canadian division.
Beyond logistics, workers are also fighting for cleaner restrooms, protections for injured employees, and fairer surveillance practices. According to Krishna Jaiswal, a cargo screener and member of the union’s bargaining committee, “It’s about respect—about recognizing the people who keep this company running.”
Could This Set a Legal Precedent?
With the June 20 law fast approaching, this strike could become a landmark case for Canadian labour rights. The union is gearing up to take legal action if DHL crosses the line. Meanwhile, negotiations remain at a standstill.
Until then, the battle between DHL Express Canada and Unifor will continue to test not just tempers, but the very rules governing Canadian workplaces.
