Rail Car Shortage Hits Halifax Port: Impact on Dwell Times and Exports

07 Aug Rail Car Shortage Hits Halifax Port: Impact on Dwell Times and Exports

The Halifax port is currently facing a significant shortage of empty rail cars, leading to a notable increase in dwell times, which have now risen to 9 days. This shortage is primarily attributed to the ongoing forest fires in Jasper, which have necessitated the reallocation of rail car resources to support emergency response efforts in that region. Consequently, a substantial portion of rail car capacity has been redirected to Jasper, exacerbating the shortage at the Halifax Atlantic terminal.

Additionally, there has been a decline in exports from Canada to European countries, further compounding the shortage of available rail cars. This decrease in export activity has added to the pressure on the already strained rail infrastructure, contributing to the extended dwell times and logistical challenges at the port.

As a freight forwarding company, we are closely monitoring the situation and working to mitigate the impact on our clients’ shipments. Our team remains committed to providing updates and finding solutions to navigate these challenges effectively.