In May 2025, Kuehne+Nagel released updated dwell time statistics for key Canadian ports, revealing how long containers remain at terminals before being cleared or moved inland. This data is essential for logistics teams, importers, and companies using storage container delivery services across Canada.
What Is Port Dwell Time?
Dwell time refers to the duration a container stays at the port terminal before being picked up or transferred. High dwell time leads to:
- Port congestion
- Increased demurrage and detention fees
- Scheduling delays for storage container delivery
- Bottlenecks in inventory and distribution systems
May 2025 Dwell Time Data (Reported by Kuehne+Nagel)
| Canadian Port | Average Dwell Time (Days) |
|---|---|
| Halifax | 4 |
| Saint John (NB) | 5 |
| Prince Rupert | 9 |
| Vancouver | 10 |
| Montreal | 11 |
These figures reflect how cargo flow has improved in some ports, while others—especially Montreal and Vancouver—continue to face logistical bottlenecks.
Key Takeaways by Port
🛳 Port of Halifax (4 days)
- Performing above national average
- Benefits from modernization grants and Green Corridor initiatives
- Growing use for alternative Atlantic gateway
⚓ Port of Saint John (5 days)
- Efficient for its size
- Still vulnerable to inland rail delays and crane equipment issues
- Used increasingly for Atlantic Canada containerized freight
🚢 Prince Rupert (9 days)
- Strategic for Asia-Canada trade routes
- Longer dwell time due to intermodal constraints
- Often serves Vancouver overflow
🚚 Vancouver (10 days)
- Western Canada’s busiest container hub
- Still recovering from congestion in late 2024
- Labour shortages, weather, and high vessel volume persist
🏗 Montreal (11 days)
- Longest dwell time in the country
- Impacted by trucker availability and restricted rail windows
- Affects imports from Europe and Eastern US distribution
💸 Business Impact: Why Dwell Time Matters
Long dwell times translate into direct and indirect costs for businesses:
| Cost Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Demurrage | Fees for containers staying at the port |
| Detention | Charges for delayed container returns |
| Missed Appointments | Retailers and 3PLs face lost distribution slots |
| Additional Storage Needs | Temporary off-port storage becomes necessary |
For businesses relying on storage container delivery, long dwell times can delay delivery windows, disrupt project timelines, and increase temporary storage expenses.
What Can Shippers Do?
✅ 1. Pre-arrange Container Pickup
Coordinate drayage or container delivery as soon as the vessel schedule is confirmed.
✅ 2. Use Off-Port Storage Services
Transfer containers to local storage yards or portable containers delivered to site — reducing risk of terminal storage fees.
✅ 3. Monitor Real-Time Port Data
Use platforms like Port Optimizer or K+N visibility tools to watch container status and anticipate delays.
✅ 4. Diversify Entry Ports
Shift volume to ports with lower dwell time such as Halifax or Saint John, when feasible.
Container Delivery Services & Dwell Time
Storage container delivery companies can help shippers:
- Pick up containers immediately after customs clearance
- Transport units to off-terminal locations within city limits
- Offer short-term rental containers for transloading or flexible storage
- Reduce dwell fees by eliminating reliance on port-side storage
📍 Connect with Trusted Container Logistics Providers in Your City
If your cargo is arriving at any major Canadian port, use local container delivery options to avoid unnecessary storage costs:
- 👉 Toronto, Ontario
- 👉 Montreal, Quebec
- 👉 Vancouver, British Columbia
- 👉 Prince Rupert, British Columbia
- 👉 Calgary, Alberta
- 👉 Edmonton, Alberta
- 👉 Winnipeg, Manitoba
- 👉 Halifax, Nova Scotia
- 👉 Regina, Saskatchewan
- 👉 Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
- 👉 St. John / Moncton, New Brunswick
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of Canadian Port Delays
Port delays aren’t just a nuisance — they’re a risk to your entire supply chain. May 2025 data shows progress in Halifax and Saint John, but persistent issues in Montreal and Vancouver continue to drive up costs and disrupt schedules.
To stay competitive, businesses must:
- Track container status in real time
- Build buffer time into their logistics plans
- Consider using storage container delivery services for flexibility and control
- Diversify ports of entry during peak congestion seasons
Being proactive is no longer optional — it’s a requirement for cost-effective container logistics in 2025.
