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Data quality, concepts and methodology: Survey concepts and data limitations
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Collection authorities and related classifications
Railway statistics contained in this publication were collected in accordance with the provisions of the Carrier Information Regulations under Section 50 of the Canada Transportation Act and Chapter S-19 of the Statistical Act (Revised Statutes of Canada 1985).
Financial, operating and commodity statistics are produced from reports submitted by railway carriers. Most of the reporting companies operate within the legislative authority of Transport Canada (TC). Financial details of railways are reported in accordance with the Uniform Classification of Accounts (UCA), as prescribed by the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA). Readers are advised to refer to the Uniform Classification of Accounts to assist in the interpretation of the information presented in this publication.
Since 1997 industry data have been published in accordance with the North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS). This industry classification system is based on a production-oriented economic concept and allows comparability of data among the following participating countries: Canada, United States and Mexico.
Rail Transportation falls under NAICS sub-sector 482, which is classified as follows:
- Short-Haul Freight Rail Transportation (482112)
- Mainline Freight Rail Transportation (482113)
- Passenger Rail Transportation (482114)
Railway companies providing scenic and sightseeing train excursions as their primary activity are classified under the 487110 NAICS industry group and are not included in this publication.
Comparability with previous years
Railway companies that were under the legislative authority of the Parliament of Canada prior to 1997 were classified as follows:
Under NAICS, CN and CP are classified as 482113, while VIA Rail is classified as 482114. Regional and short-haul carriers, previously classified as Class II carriers, are classified as 482112.
Support activities for transportation have been consolidated under NAICS sub-sector 488. The former Class III companies are now classified as Support Activities for Rail Transportation under 488210. Data from these companies are no longer included in this publication.
Employment statistics are collected in accordance with the Uniform Classification of Railway Employees (introduced January 1, 1964).
Commodity detail is reported according to the U.S. Standard Transportation Commodity Codes (STCC) and since 1999, converted to a 512 code Standard Classification of Transported Goods (SCTG).
Data from 2004 to 2008 are provided in this publication for NAICS 482113, 482114 and 482112.
