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Canada is rich in base metals that are in high demand in Asia
Connect to the powerful CN rail network and capitalize on a wealth of import possibilities.
Western and eastern Canada contain some of the largest North American source areas of aluminum, copper, iron ore, lead, nickel and zinc. CN provides superior rail access to these base metal producers; together with our high-capacity 128,700-kg rail line and network of metals distribution centres, we can offer you a complete transportation solution.
We have the equipment to transport base metals

Whether you are shipping by bulk or container vessel, we have the equipment to do the job.
- 20-foot (6-metre) containers are ideal for double-stack shipping on our flat cars via our high-capacity line, as well as for trans-Pacific shipping.
- Covered gondolas can carry up to 89,385 kilograms.
- Metals boxcars are built to handle up to 102 tonnes.
We deliver your base metals faster
The transit times from Asia to North America offer you a competitive shipping advantage. Benefit from predictable, reliable transit cycle times and manage your base metal imports with confidence.
| Vessel Transit Times | |
|---|---|
| Canada's west coast - Asia | |
| Vancouver to Tianjin | 16 days |
| Vancouver to Shanghai | 16 days |
| Vancouver to Qingdao | 16 days |
| Vancouver to Guangzhou | 18 days |
| Vancouver to Hong Kong | 18 days |
| Canada's east coast - Asia | |
| Halifax to Shanghai | 40-43 days |
| Halifax to Qingdao | 37-42 days |
| Halifax to Hong Kong | 31-33 days |
Transit time calculated based on vessel speed of 13.5 knots
Contact the China team today
CN WorldWide provides an extension of CN's services. Contact our team of experts to find out how we can help connect you to a wealth of import and export opportunities. CN WorldWide has offices in China in Shanghai, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Qingdao, and Beijing, as well as in South America.
Call 1-888-269-9605 or send an email.
