Recent reports indicate Canada’s construction industry may experience a period of levelling off over the next decade; however there are some significant exceptions.
In BC, for instance, construction rates continue to rise. Over the past five years, the value of proposed construction projects has risen from $164 Billion to $325 Billion, an increase of 98% (BC Construction Assn. stats 2013 -2017). 2018 first quarter alone has seen 3.8% increase in non-housing construction (B.C. Govt. Data Catalogue). These are some very positive numbers on the demand side; however the industry still faces some significant challenges.
One such challenge is the aging workforce with retirements expected to continue outpacing the influx of new replacement workers! Some current estimates are predicting the retirement of up to 21% of Canada’s construction workforce over the next decade, resulting in an industry that may struggle with the availability of experienced and skilled workers and supervisory personnel. These difficulties are consistent with those characterized by an aging workforce. Key to mitigating this issue is heightened attention to recruitment, and the necessary training, and mentoring, to alleviate the potential for a Skills and Capacity Gap. However, training and recruitment alone will not match the pace of retirement. Increases in labour productivity and other new efficiencies must be found if the industry is to continue thriving in the face of these realities.
Recent information in a Construction Owners Association of America (COAA) study identifies that “63% of direct labour time on mega-projects is spent waiting for materials and equipment traveling to the area, on early breaks, and on planning how to complete the work”.
In light of this, the importance of material logistics and the ability to control the flow of construction material for the whole supply chain should be emphasized. Good logistics can reduce time delays on the job site, smoothing and stabilizing workflow. Good Logistics can lower direct labour time and minimize downtime, for an industry where on-site workflow is critical to the bottom line.
In those instances where material or equipment is being imported, stable delivery timelines and assurances that customs clearance issues do not hamper cross-border flow will enhance efficiency. Your Customs Broker can provide the solutions that improve material logistics. By utilizing procedures to make customs clearance simple and customizing plans to your specific needs, Border Brokers in-house technology can take electronic data from your internal systems and integrate seamlessly with CBSA, CBP, and other Government Departments, tailoring the workflow specifically to maximize the benefits to you, benefits like a faster turnaround time and more dependable delivery! Canadian import broker specialists ensure that you have the proper documentation to clear customs, including invoices, NAFTA, bill of lading, carrier documents, manifests, air waybill and ocean/rail manifest, so crucial to the flow of construction material for your supply chain.
Your Customs Broker provides a foundation for good material logistics. Sustainable and secure supply of equipment and material is fundamental to finding the new efficiencies and increased labour productivity necessary for companies in Canada’s construction industry to manage the high pace of retirements and continue building for future success!