Category: Service Updates

Dear Valued Customer,

As severe cold conditions grip parts of Canada, we want to assure you that the safety of our employees, communities, and the goods we transport remains our top priority. To that end, our logistics partners have implemented enhanced safety measures to navigate the challenges posed by extreme winter weather.

Severe cold and heavy snowfall can significantly impact rail operations, particularly the braking systems. To maintain safe operations, a tiered system is used to adjust train lengths when temperatures drop below -25°C.

At -25°C (Tier 1): Train lengths are restricted to a maximum of 10,000 feet.
At -31°C (Tier 2): The maximum train length is reduced further to 8,500 feet.
At -36°C (Tier 2): Train lengths are further restricted to 8,500 feet, with additional safety measures in place.
These tier restrictions often require additional train starts—up to three in certain cases—to safely transport the same volume of goods. While these adjustments are essential for maintaining safety, they may lead to increased operational complexity, particularly as multiple corridors experience severe weather simultaneously.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to minimizing disruptions and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of your goods during these challenging conditions. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to reach out to your account representative.

Thank you for your understanding and partnership as we navigate this winter season together.

Warm regards,
The M-O Team

Please note that a delay of 48-72 hours is anticipated throughout BC, SK, and AB as they continue to deal with extreme weather conditions. We will monitor the situation and provide further updates as they become available.

Please note that due to the closure of Highway 401 Eastbound between Ottawa and Toronto, delays may be possible. We will continue to monitor this situation closely and provide updates as they become available. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to customerservice@m-o.com

Please note that delays may be possible throughout Northern Ontario due to severe weather conditions and highway closures. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as they become available. 

Please note that delays of 48-72 hours may be possible throughout Saskatchewan due to severe weather conditions affecting operations. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as they become available. 

To view the 2024 Holiday Schedule, please click here

To view the current Fresh & Frozen Schedule, please click here

Please note that on On Monday, October 14th, our terminals coast to coast will be closed for pickups and deliveries as we observe and celebrate the Canadian Thanksgiving Holiday.

On behalf of the entire team at Maritime-Ontario, we wish you all a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Please note that beginning Tuesday, October 15th, our Heated service will be available to safeguard your shipments from freezing, running through April 15th, 2025. If you are shipping temperature-sensitive goods, please plan carefully and ensure that the required temperature and handling instructions are clearly indicated on all shipping documents and labels.

Please be advised that all M-O locations will remain operational on September 30, 2024, Truth and Reconciliation Day. However, due to the observance of this important day and reduced staffing levels, minor service delays should be anticipated.

We appreciate your understanding as we continue to provide our services while also respecting the significance of this day.