Frequently asked questions

When you have a question about the Canadian Grain Commission, start your search for an answer here.  These questions represent the ones the Canadian Grain Commission receives most often.

In most answers, you will be given a link that goes to where the information is housed on the web site. Cannot find what you are looking for? You can also search the web site using a word or phrase.

If you still cannot find your answer, contact us at contact@grainscanada.gc.ca or by phone at toll-free 1-800-853-6705 or TTY 1-866-317-4289.

General questions

Q1. Where can I find information about employment opportunities at the Canadian Grain Commission?

A1. Information about employment opportunities in the federal public service that are open to the general public is posted on the Careers in the federal public service web site (Public Service Commission of Canada). Job postings which are open to the general public are included on this site.

Q2. Where can I buy Canadian grains, oilseed, peas, beans and lentils?

A2. We offer a list of marketing and producer organizations that can provide information and contacts to anyone who is interested in buying Canadian grains.

Q3. Where can I compare this year’s deliveries by farmers to grain elevators to last year’s deliveries?

A3. The Canadian Grain Handling Summary gives statistics on farmers’ deliveries to grain elevators for the current crop year to date and for the previous year. It is part of the Canadian Grain Commission publication Grain Statistics Weekly, which provides more detailed information on the movement of Canadian grain.

Questions about grading and licensing

Q4. How does the Canadian Grain Commission protect producers like me?

A4. Under the Canada Grain Act, the Canadian Grain Commission provides the following protection to producers:

• Solving disagreements about grade and dockage if you disagree with the grade you receive for your grain at a licensed primary elevator with an impartial and binding decision about grade.
• Providing payment protection for producers when grain companies that are licensed by the Canadian Grain Commission refuse or are unable to pay eligible producers for the grain they have delivered. Occasionally, producers are not paid for the grain they sell to primary elevators, process elevators or grain dealers. The Canadian Grain Commission offers suggestions for managing this risk.

Q5. What does “subject to inspector’s grade and dockage” mean?

A5. “Subject to inspector’s grade and dockage” means that the grain producer or the person delivering the grain has the right to ask for a binding decision from the Canadian Grain Commission if the grain producer or the person delivering the grain disagrees with the grade and dockage received at a licensed primary elevator.

Q6. How do I know if a grain handler or buyer is licensed by the Canadian Grain Commission?

A6. Contact the Canadian Grain Commission. We also have a current list of licensees. Be aware that a company’s licence status can change at short notice.

Q7. Can the Canadian Grain Commission help me if a licensed grain dealer or operator of a primary, terminal, process or transfer elevator fails to honour a delivery contract?

A7. The Canadian Grain Commission does not have the power to enforce contracts.  We suggest that if you have an issue with your contract, you should seek legal counsel.

The Canada Grain Act empowers the Canadian Grain Commission to ensure that payment on demand is made for grain once it is delivered, based on the agreed price as stated on the receipt issued by the licensee on delivery.

Q8. If the licensee I deal with does not pay me, am I guaranteed to be paid in full?

A8. No. The Canadian Grain Commission’s licensing program is intended to provide financial assistance to producers if licensees fail to pay for their grain. The Canadian Grain Commission’s security coverage is limited to the amount of security posted by a given company and does not guarantee full payment.

Q9. When is my grain considered dry?

A9. In terms of moisture content, grain is classified as straight, tough or damp. Grain is considered dry (or straight) if its moisture level is less than the specifications given for tough grain. Specifications for tough and damp grains are found in the chapter on moisture located in the Official Grain Guiding Guide. The Canadian Grain Commission provides moisture testing tools and services.

Q10. What is test weight?

A10. Test weight is a grading factor for Canadian grain. It is the measure of grain density determined by weighing a known volume of grain. The Canadian Grain Commission provides test weight tools, procedures and tolerances.

Q11. What are variety designation lists?

A11. Variety designation lists contain all the varieties of Canadian wheat, barley and flaxseed that are eligible for each class. These lists are maintained by the Canadian Grain Commission.  The Canadian Grain Commission explains their significance in grain deliveries.