Rail

RAIL

McMillan’s rail transportation group has been described by Chambers Canada as “likely the most experienced and knowledgeable in the country.” Our specialized, expert counsel is frequently sought out by other law firms, shippers, shortline railways, rail equipment manufacturers and lessors, governments and carriers in Canada and the United States.

Businesses that ship by rail face unique challenges in an environment that often lacks competitive alternatives and requires significant commercial, economic and legal support to succeed. Those same businesses may engage with railways in ways that require a broad range of advice and leadership.

We are known for our advice, advocacy, and conduct of a wide variety of rail-related mandates:

• competitive and strategic analysis in support and conduct of rate and service negotiations;
• advocacy in contested regulatory and court proceedings, including final offer and service level arbitrations, level of service disputes, and regulated interswitching;
• public policy advocacy and government relations;
• transfers or discontinuance of railway lines and other regulated transactions and disputes;
• structure, development, financing and construction of infrastructure projects;
• shipping and handling agreements at inland and seaborne terminal facilities;
• rail and terminal mergers and acquisitions;
• supply chain logistics and procurement;
• finance, acquisition and leasing of rail rolling stock.

DOCUMENTS

McMillan Rail Shippers’ Guide.
This guide provides a high-level overview of shippers’ rights and remedies when shipping freight by rail under the Canada Transportation Act and related regulations.

Rail Policy Work
Find a list of public submissions we have authored or which our clients have submitted in connection with rail regulatory and economic policy.