Overview of the Intermodal Railyards
Calgary’s primary rail terminal complex includes the CPKC Calgary Intermodal Facility and the CN Calgary Logistics Park, both handling containers, bulk commodities, and automotive shipments with direct connections to transcontinental mainlines.
Modern intermodal terminals in Calgary offer seamless transfer between rail and truck, with advanced cargo handling, secure storage, and high-throughput capacity for containers, bulk, and automotive freight.
Market Size and Economic Impact
Calgary’s rail and logistics sector moves over 40 million tonnes of cargo annually, supporting $7 billion in economic output and creating 30,000 jobs. The city ranks among Canada’s top inland ports, serving as a major distribution and export hub for Western Canada.
Competitive Landscape
- CPKC Rail Terminals: Calgary Intermodal Facility and Ogden Yard provide direct access to U.S. and Mexico via the CPKC mainline
- CN Rail Facilities: Calgary Logistics Park supports container, bulk, and automotive shipments with transcontinental reach
- Third-Party Logistics: Major 3PLs and warehousing clusters leverage rail-served industrial parks for regional distribution
Opportunities
- Inland Port Expansion: Prairie Economic Gateway project will add 1,000+ acres of rail-served logistics and warehousing capacity
- Asia-Pacific Trade: Growing containerized imports from Vancouver and Prince Rupert drive demand for intermodal services
- Agri-Food Exports: Enhanced grain and protein export capacity positions Calgary as a key agri-food logistics center
Challenges
- Urban Encroachment: Industrial rail operations face pressure from residential and commercial development
- Infrastructure Bottlenecks: Mainline and yard congestion during peak periods can delay freight movement
- Labour Availability: Skilled workforce shortages impact terminal and rail operations efficiency
Trade and Logistics Trends
- Intermodal Growth: Container volumes rising with e-commerce and Asia-Pacific trade expansion
- Bulk Commodities: Strong grain, fertilizer, and energy shipments drive rail volumes
- Regional Distribution: Calgary’s central location supports rapid delivery to Western Canadian markets
Future Outlook
- Terminal Expansions: Prairie Economic Gateway and CPKC yard upgrades to boost capacity and efficiency
- Digitalization: Implementation of real-time tracking and automated cargo handling systems
- Green Logistics: Investments in low-emission locomotives and sustainable terminal operations
Recommendations
- Capacity Enhancement: Prioritize mainline and yard expansions to accommodate projected cargo growth
- Technology Integration: Adopt advanced data analytics and automation for supply chain optimization
- Workforce Development: Invest in training programs to address skilled labour shortages in rail and logistics
Calgary, AB
Calgary anchors the Prairie Economic Gateway, connecting Western Canada’s resource corridors with national and cross-border rail networks, and serving a metropolitan region of over 1.6 million people.
Calgary’s strategic location at the intersection of CPKC and CN mainlines provides direct access to Vancouver, Prince Rupert, and U.S. Midwest markets, making it a vital inland gateway for transcontinental and North American trade flows.
Where you'll go
Things to know
Rail Operations
Rail Arrival: Canadian Pacific Railway reached Calgary in 1883, catalyzing the city’s emergence as a transportation hub
Facilities & Services
Gateway to Rockies: Calgary’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains and U.S. border enhances its logistics significance
Location Benefits
Energy and Agriculture: The city’s economy is driven by oil, gas, agri-food processing, and export-oriented industries
Additional Information
Innovation Ecosystem: Home to major research universities and logistics technology clusters supporting freight efficiency