Members of the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference-Train & Engine went on strike at 10 pm ET. But the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers agreed to a tentative new contract.
The two unions had warned the railroad three days ago they would strike beginning at 10 pm ET unless they came to an agreement on new contract terms.
CP and the unions have been negotiating since 25 May when employees rejected previous contract proposals.
The railroad had already begun to ‘wind down’ operations, embargoing freight movements originating on the railroad's Canadian lines and US-origin cargoes headed to Canada. US-only shipments will continue because the unions threatening to strike only represent Canadian workers.
US freight railroads began warning customers of the embargo, advising that they would not be able to ship to Canada.
The US Surface Transportation Board advised shippers experiencing difficulties to contact its Rail Customer and Public Assistance office for assistance.
