NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Grain transportation stayed active in mid-April, but the pace varied by mode.
U.S. Class I railroads originated 28,523 grain carloads for the week ending April 11. That was down 7 percent from the previous week, but still 1 percent above last year and 15 percent above the 3-year average.
Barge grain movements were much stronger. For the week ending April 18, total barged grain reached 719,627 tons. That was 43 percent above the previous week and 53 percent above the same week last year. A total of 475 barges moved downriver, up 173 from the prior week.
Ocean movement showed a mixed picture. Twenty-seven grain vessels loaded in the Gulf during the week ending April 16, down 21 percent from a year ago. But 40 vessels were expected over the next 10 days, up 21 percent from the same period last year.
Freight rates also moved higher. Shipping grain from the Gulf to Japan rose to $67.25 per metric ton, while the Pacific Northwest route to Japan rose to $35.50 per ton.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Grain movement stayed active, with barges showing the strongest weekly gain while rail and ocean signals remained mixed.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Crop insurance remains essential as risks and costs rise.
April 17, 2026 08:00 AM
·
Weak soybean sales and soft wheat demand contrast with solid corn export strength.
April 17, 2026 06:00 AM
·
AFBF Economist Dr. Faith Parum break down new survey findings on fertilizer affordability and producer sentiment heading into the 2026 growing season.
April 16, 2026 02:54 PM
·
Charly Cummings with Superior Livestock Auction joined us to discuss today’s cattle offering, market demand, and what producers should watch as they plan upcoming sales.
April 16, 2026 12:20 PM
·
David Fisher with the American Lamb Board joined us to discuss a new sustainability program designed to boost producer profitability while supporting stewardship practices.
April 16, 2026 11:57 AM
·
Trade disputes can quickly reduce demand for key crops.
April 16, 2026 11:15 AM
·
