Canada’s Shortline Network
Shortline railways play a critical role in Canadian supply chains, linking local economies to broader markets. They provide an efficient and sustainable way to move goods across the country and beyond.
Facts
One in five freight carloads in Canada originates on a shortline – $49 billion worth of goods.
Good paying jobs – average salary over $100,000
8,752 km of track owned or operated by shortlines.
Shortline locomotives can move 1 tonne of freight more than 200km with just a single litre of fuel.
1.2M carloads originated annually representing 21% of all Canadian rail industry carloads
1.7M carloads handled annually. Including 1.2 million first-mile connections across the rail network.
104.2M tonnes of freight start on a shortline. That’s 30% of Canada’s total rail freight tonnage
Support Canada’s Future.
Create a Federal Shortline Tax Credit
Increase Investment
Tax credits reduce cost barriers and encourage capital investment.
Strengthen Supply Chains
Improve first-mile and last-mile freight connectivity.
Support Economic Growth
For every dollar invested, there is a $10 return.
A Canadian federal shortline rail tax credit would cost $50 million, and generate an estimated $500 million economic return.
$50M
COST
$500M
ESTIMATED RETURN
Recommendations
Create a Federal Shortline Rail Tax Credit to drive investment, improve supply chains, and build a stronger Canadian economy.
Shortline Railways in Canada need a predictable government support mechanism to support local businesses, jobs, communities, and remain a viable alternative to trucking. Strengthened shortline infrastructure would contribute to regional economic development, improve supply chain fluidity, lower costs for businesses, and enhance safety while lowering emissions and reducing the strain on public infrastructure.
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