NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — A new USDA Agricultural Marketing Service study finds that big shipping alliances—groups of ocean carriers that share ships and schedules—now move over 70 percent of America’s container exports.
Even as export volumes have leveled off since peaking in 2015, the report says the real-world effects on exporters are small: a few fewer ship visits on some routes, slightly tighter space, and roughly $20 more per container on average.
For farm shippers—hay, specialty grains, meats, dairy powders, almonds—the impact isn’t worse than for other goods. The study notes import routes may be a different story because they move larger volumes and higher-value products, so they could feel alliance power more sharply.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Expect business-as-usual for most container exports. Keep bookings flexible, budget for modest rate bumps, diversify ports and carriers where possible, and watch import congestion for ripple effects.
Related Stories
Tight global supply is likely to keep fuel and fertilizer costs elevated.
Improving dairy prices could support stronger milk checks later this year.
Lower U.S. ethanol production and stocks may support ethanol prices while strong export demand continues to support ethanol and corn markets.
China’s changing pork demand may limit export growth opportunities.
Margin pressure and competitiveness concerns are shaping cautious outlooks.
Fewer DEF-related shutdowns could mean more uptime during planting and harvest seasons.
