CN moved a record 2.50 million metric tonnes of grain from Western Canada in August, the company announced today as it released its 2026-2027 Grain Plan outlining how it will support Canada’s agricultural sector.
The performance topped CN’s previous monthly record of 2.34 million metric tonnes set in August 2020, representing a 6.8% increase.
The record gives the railway a strong opening to the 2026-27 crop year as harvest progresses across Western Canada and new grain enters the supply chain. CN said the results reflect strong customer demand, close work with grain supply chain partners and steady execution of its operating plan.
As the 2025-2026 crop year concludes, CN achieved 10 months of record grain movement across its network. This performance reflects collaboration among producers, grain companies, terminals, customers and CN railroaders to manage capacity and ensure the resiliency of Canada’s integrated grain supply chain.
“Every crop year presents new challenges and opportunities, but our focus remains constant: operating safely, delivering reliably for our customers and keeping the grain supply chain moving,” said Tracy Robinson, president and chief executive officer of CN. “When we plan together, we perform better, helping ensure Canadian grain reaches domestic and global markets efficiently and reliably.”
CN anticipates shipments of 30 to 33 million metric tonnes of grain and processed grain products during the 2026-2027 crop year compared to maximum sustainable end-to-end grain supply chain capacity of 36.7 million metric tonnes. The company said it has the people, equipment and operating plan to meet the anticipated demand.
CN will continue providing weekly public performance metrics and monthly reporting to customers, government and other stakeholders throughout the crop year. The railway remains prepared to adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining a safe and fluid railway.
