Ultimate 2025 Guide: What Can You Ship with Intermodal Rail in Canada?

Intermodal Rail
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Francine Goulet

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Intermodal Rail: The Best Freight Options and Benefits for Canadian Shippers

In today’s competitive shipping landscape, Canadian businesses are constantly seeking faster, more cost-effective, and sustainable logistics solutions. Intermodal rail shipping in Canada has emerged as a powerful strategy, combining the long-haul efficiency of rail with the flexibility of trucking.

This ultimate guide explores which types of goods are best suited for intermodal transport—and how your company can harness this hybrid method to cut costs, reduce emissions, and scale efficiently.

Intermodal Rail

What is Intermodal Shipping?

Intermodal shipping refers to the movement of freight using two or more modes of transportation—most commonly rail and truck—within a single container, without the need to unload and reload the cargo when switching between modes. This seamless transfer helps minimize handling, reducing the risk of damage or loss during transit. It combines the long-haul efficiency of rail with the flexibility of trucks for first- and last-mile delivery. 

Intermodal shipping is highly adaptable, suitable for a wide range of goods, and has become a preferred option for businesses aiming to optimize costs, improve reliability, and meet growing environmental regulations. This method also allows shippers to benefit from standardized container sizes, streamlining logistics and simplifying customs processes for cross-border shipments.

Why Intermodal Rail Works:

  • Cost-Efficiency: Rail is 3–4x more fuel-efficient than trucks over long hauls.
  • Sustainability: Reduces carbon emissions significantly.
  • Enhanced Security: Less cargo handling = less risk of damage or theft.
  • Scalable & Flexible: Ideal for high-volume or recurring shipments.

What Can You Ship with Intermodal Rail in Canada?

Intermodal containers are versatile and adaptable to a wide range of goods. Here’s what you can ship confidently:


1. Dry Goods & Consumer Products

Standard containers are perfect for:

  • Packaged foods and beverages
  • Electronics and household goods
  • Retail inventory and clothing

💡 These products don’t require special handling or temperature control, making them ideal for intermodal transport.


2. Palletized Freight & Industrial Materials

Includes:

  • Machinery and automotive components
  • Lumber, steel, and construction materials
  • Bulk packaging and raw goods

Intermodal rail excels at transporting heavy or irregular-sized goods that are already palletized and ready to load.


3. Temperature-Controlled Shipments

Reefer (refrigerated) containers are ideal for:

  • Fresh produce
  • Dairy and frozen goods
  • Pharmaceuticals and biotech supplies

With reliable temperature monitoring, you can maintain cold-chain compliance throughout the journey.


4. Bulk & Specialized Freight

For companies in agriculture or chemicals:

  • Grain, seeds, and fertilizers
  • Liquids and chemicals in ISO tanks
  • Bulk powders or raw materials

Specialty intermodal containers, including tankers, are designed to meet stringent safety standards.


5. Automotive Parts & Vehicles

From transmissions to tires and full vehicles:

  • Secure and stable environment
  • Seamless loading/unloading at terminals
  • Trusted by OEMs and suppliers alike

6. Agricultural Products

Canada’s agri-sector relies on intermodal for:

  • Grains and oilseeds
  • Fertilizers and soil enhancers
  • Livestock feed and more

Intermodal helps farmers move bulk quantities affordably across long distances.


Why Canadian Businesses Choose Intermodal Rail

  • Lower Costs: Up to 30% savings over long-haul trucking
  • Reliability: Predictable rail schedules = better planning
  • Sustainability: 75% fewer emissions than highway freight
  • Hybrid Flexibility: Rail + truck = door-to-door efficiency

Is Intermodal Right for Your Business?

Intermodal rail shipping is ideal if you:

  • Ship more than 500 km across Canada
  • Want to reduce shipping costs without compromising reliability
  • Need scalable solutions for seasonal or recurring freight
  • Are aiming to reduce your carbon footprint

Partnering with RailGateway.ca

At RailGateway.ca, we specialize in custom intermodal solutions designed to fit your freight profile and budget. Whether you’re shipping from Toronto to Vancouver or across the border, our expert team ensures your cargo moves smoothly, securely, and sustainably.

📞 Ready to optimize your shipping strategy?
Contact us today for a free consultation—and discover how intermodal rail can transform your supply chain.


🔗 Internal Links:


🔗 External Resources:

Canadian Transportation Agency – Shipping Regulations

Transport Canada – Rail Freight Overview   

CN Intermodal Capabilities


Ready to optimize your shipping strategy?
Contact us today for a personalized consultation and discover how intermodal rail can reduce costs and improve performance across your supply chain.

Picture of Francine Goulet
Francine Goulet

Francine Goulet is the Founder and CEO of RailGateway.ca, one of the largest intermodal service providers in Canada, serving the North American market...

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