CN sets new monthly record for Canadian grain transportation
Canadian National Railway (CN) transported a record 3.54 million metric tonnes of grain and processed grain products across Canada in October 2026, exceeding its previous monthly record established a year earlier.
The result surpassed the 3.51 million tonnes handled in October 2025, representing an increase of approximately 30,000 tonnes, or 0.85%. According to the railway operator, the latest performance reflects strong customer demand and coordination between railway operations, grain companies and other supply chain participants during the peak agricultural shipping season.
CN also matched its previous October record for western Canadian grain transportation, moving 3.43 million tonnes of grain and processed grain products. This was unchanged from the corresponding record established in October 2025.
Grain transportation and export connectivity
The latest figures highlight the importance of Canada’s railway network in connecting agricultural production regions with domestic markets and international export gateways.
CN operates a rail network spanning approximately 20,000 miles, linking Canada’s eastern and western coasts with the United States Midwest and Gulf Coast. Its freight services support agricultural exports alongside the transportation of industrial materials, manufactured goods and other commodities.
The company works with grain producers, shippers, port terminals and logistics partners to coordinate the movement of agricultural products across its network.
The October performance follows CN’s earlier announcement of a quarterly record for western Canadian grain transportation. During the third quarter of 2026, the railway moved 7.94 million tonnes of grain from Western Canada, surpassing its previous third-quarter record of 7.48 million tonnes set in 2020.
Preparing for winter operations
CN is continuing preparations for the 2026–2027 winter season, when adverse weather conditions can affect railway capacity, equipment availability and freight movements.
The company has published its Winter Plan, outlining measures intended to maintain safe and reliable operations across its network during the colder months.
CN said it remains focused on coordinating with grain customers, port terminals and other supply chain participants to support transportation requirements throughout the 2026–2027 crop year.
The latest monthly record comes amid sustained demand for Canadian grain transportation, with railway capacity and coordination remaining important factors in maintaining access to international agricultural markets.
