Falcon Premium Intermodal Service

Canadian National, Union Pacific, and Grupo México have created a new direct intermodal service between points in Mexico and Canada through Eagle Pass and Chicago. This service will provide the fastest and most direct routing entirely by rail. 

Service Matrix

Mexico to Canada Intermodal Service - Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of the new direct interline service?
This new product provides a seamless connection between the three railroads along with the most diverse access to Mexico and Canadian origins and destinations. The direct interchange offers shippers the opportunity to maximize lading weights in Canada and Mexico, faster transit times, and reduction of carbon emissions by limiting trucks in an all-rail service.

Where will the connection take place in Chicago?
The connection to and from Union Pacific will take place at Union Pacific’s Yard Center Intermodal Terminal, in Dolton, Illinois, and at Canadian National’s Chicago Intermodal Terminal in Harvey, Illinois.

What terminals/ramps are included for Grupo México?
Monterrey, Nuevo León, and Silao, Guanajuato, are the two Grupo México terminals currently included in this service.

What terminals/ramps are included for Canadian National
Detroit, MI; Brampton, ON; Montreal, PQ; Moncton, NB; Halifax, NS; Winnipeg, MB; Saskatoon, SK; Regina, SK; Edmonton, AB; Calgary, AB; Prince George, BC; Vancouver, BC

Will this impact interline service for lanes not listed?
No, KCSM served locations in Mexico (Monterrey, Interpuerto and Mexico City) will all continue to be served and trucked in Chicago to/from Canadian National and Union Pacific. All other Mexico, Canada and U.S. locations and service will not be impacted.

Do you expect to add locations in the future?
We are always working with customers to develop new solutions to support their supply chains. The new service will start with Monterrey and Silao but we will evaluate other locations both in Mexico and the U.S.

What other U.S. locations are included? 
Detroit, a popular origin/destination for automotive shipments, is included.

Are there any customs implications with the direct interchange versus previous rubber tire connection?
No. It is the same process for customs as used with the truck transfer in Chicago.

What equipment types are eligible for this service?

  • Private-owned 53’ dry containers
  • Canadian National owned 53’ dry and reefer containers
  • EMHU (EMP program) 

What are the heavy weight policies for shipping on Falcon Premium?
Our goal is to deliver our customers’ products damage-free and in factory fresh condition. As your transportation provider, we need your assistance with properly preparing all intermodal shipments to prevent damage and costly claims. Therefore, lading weight in trailers/containers must be evenly distributed both crosswise and lengthwise and combined weight of lading and trailer/containers must conform to all Federal, State, Provincial and Local regulations and transportation service requirements used at origin and to final destination. It is a requirement that shippers follow all AAR minimum loading requirements. Heavy metal concentrates (eg. coils, rolls, etc.) exceeding 3,500 lbs per unit will require prior approval, a signed contract and secondary insurance. For details and further assistance, please contact our Shipment Quality Team or learn more about our Intermodal Guidelines now. 

Will my shipping rates change?
All rates contained in confidential transportation contracts remain without any changes.

Getting Started

Ready to get started? Please contact your Union Pacific sales representative or Canadian National account manager. 

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