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
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Rail strength is helping stabilize grain movement, but river and export slowdowns continue to limit overall logistics momentum.
China continues to buy U.S. soybeans toward its 12 MMT commitment, as analysts cite data gaps, delivery timing questions, and muted market reaction.
Trade uncertainty—especially regarding soybeans—continues to weigh on future outlooks, even as farm finances and land values remain resilient.
Strong export demand supports feed grain prices, but drought risk and seasonal patterns favor disciplined early-year marketing.
Sen. Deb Fischer reintroduces the HAULS Act to update hours-of-service exemptions and definitions affecting livestock and agricultural haulers. She joins us on Market Day Report to share more about her proposed legislation.
Corn export strength remains a key demand anchor, while China’s continued involvement in soybeans and sorghum bears close watching for price direction.
Strong crush demand and rising ethanol production are pressuring feedstocks, as traders monitor storage risks and supply chain uncertainty and await the upcoming January WASDE report.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
