NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. corn and soybean export economics shifted noticeably in the third quarter of 2025 as transportation costs rose from the previous quarter but remained lower than a year earlier, underscoring how logistics — not farm prices alone — continue to shape export competitiveness.
From the second to the third quarter, transportation costs from Minneapolis to Japan increased for both corn and soybeans through the U.S. Gulf and Pacific Northwest. The quarter-to-quarter rise was driven primarily by higher ocean freight rates, reflecting strong global bulk demand, seasonal shipping patterns, and temporary logistical constraints. Gulf-route transportation costs jumped 14 percent for both crops, fueled by an 18 percent increase in barge rates and a 17 percent rise in ocean freight, partially offset by slightly lower trucking costs.
Despite higher freight costs, total landed costs were cushioned by weaker farm values. Corn farm prices fell nearly 12 percent quarter to quarter, while soybean values declined about 3 percent. As a result, total landed costs through the Gulf fell 3 percent for corn and rose just 1 percent for soybeans.
Year over year, the picture was more favorable. Transportation costs declined modestly on both routes as truck, rail, and ocean freight rates eased. Total landed costs fell for both commodities, particularly soybeans, improving U.S. export competitiveness.
Inspection data confirmed strong Gulf export flows, while Pacific Northwest corn shipments surged on Asian demand. USDA projects corn exports will rise in 2025/26, while soybean exports are expected to decline.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Freight volatility increasingly determines export margins, making logistics costs as important as price in marketing decisions.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom shares how recent trade talks are influencing U.S. red meat global sales and the importance of key trade agreements like the USMCA.
November 12, 2025 03:07 PM
·
Friday’s release will be the first WASDE report in about two months, and early estimates indicate a corn surplus is still on the way.
November 12, 2025 12:16 PM
·
A Reuters report shows China has a soybean “glut,” finding stockpiles at Chinese ports are at record levels, with crushers there holding the most supplies since 2017.
November 12, 2025 10:55 AM
·
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) says recent wins in markets like Malaysia and Cambodia help farmers focus on production rather than trade barriers.
November 11, 2025 03:50 PM
·
Lucia Ruano, USMEF’s Central America representative, discusses what is driving demand for U.S. beef and pork in the region.
November 11, 2025 01:30 PM
·
Tyson expects another year of beef-segment losses due to tight cattle supplies, even as chicken, pork, and prepared foods strengthen overall margins.
November 11, 2025 01:26 PM
·
Export strength is concentrated in corn and wheat, while soybeans and sorghum lag, keeping basis and logistics dynamics highly commodity-specific into late fall.
November 11, 2025 11:21 AM
·
A smaller U.S. turkey flock and resurgent avian flu have tightened supplies, driving prices higher even as other key holiday foods show mixed trends.
November 10, 2025 03:05 PM
·
Lewie Pugh, with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on what the bill could mean for truckers.
November 10, 2025 11:46 AM
·
