MSC offers Canadian gateway options for US Midwest cargo

Illustration of an MSC container ship and truck moving cargo through Canadian gateways into the US Midwest.

MSC is promoting Montreal and Halifax as alternative gateways for cargo moving from Europe and the Mediterranean to the US Midwest.

The carrier’s cross-border solution combines ocean services to Canada with established rail connections to Chicago, Detroit and St. Paul.

MSC said the routing provides importers with an alternative to traditional US East Coast gateways. It can also reduce dependence on a single entry point during periods of congestion or disruption.

Three services support Canadian routing

The solution uses three weekly services:

  • Montreal Express
  • Canada Express
  • MED-Canada

The Montreal Express and Canada Express provide two weekly sailing opportunities from shared North European ports, including Antwerp and Le Havre.

Meanwhile, the MED-Canada service connects Mediterranean gateways in Italy, Spain and Portugal with Canada’s East Coast.

After arriving in Montreal or Halifax, cargo can continue by rail to key inland markets across the US Midwest.

MSC said the combined ocean and rail network gives customers additional routing and load-planning options. It can also support seasonal volumes and changing distribution requirements.

Transit times depend on the origin, destination and selected service. MSC noted that published transit times remain indicative and may change with operating schedules.