NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — U.S. grain transportation showed mixed but generally supportive signals in early December as rail volumes strengthened, barge movement rebounded, and fuel costs eased. Higher rail originations and lower diesel prices are helping offset seasonal logistical challenges for producers and shippers.
Class I railroads originated more than 30,700 grain carloads for the week ending December 6, up 20 percent from the prior week and well above both last year and the three-year average. Shuttle railcar premiums declined from the previous week but remain elevated compared with a year ago, while non-shuttle markets softened below tariff levels, signaling improved near-term availability.
Barge traffic also recovered sharply. Grain movements totaled nearly 888,000 tons, up 62 percent week over week, as more barges moved downriver. However, unloadings in the New Orleans region fell, reflecting lingering river and weather-related constraints.
Export loading remained slower than last year, with fewer vessels scheduled at Gulf terminals, though ocean freight rates to Japan edged lower from both Gulf and Pacific Northwest origins. Diesel prices declined nearly six cents per gallon, offering modest cost relief.
Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026.
January 23, 2026 04:40 PM
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USDA Rural Development Director for Kentucky, Travis Burton, joined us to discuss the Princeton facility (formerly Porter Road Meats), now backed by the USDA, and its role in expanding domestic meat processing capacity.
January 23, 2026 03:39 PM
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Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director Ryan Norris talks energy infrastructure, regulatory reform, and the role of critical minerals in supporting rural America.
January 23, 2026 01:54 PM
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Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses supply chain challenges facing agriculture as snow, sleet and ice threaten most of the Eastern U.S.
January 23, 2026 01:36 PM
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Congressman Adrian Smith of Nebraska joined us with the latest on efforts to secure year-round E15 sales.
January 23, 2026 01:12 PM
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Brian Earnest, an animal protein economist with CoBank, shares insights into current demand trends and the challenges facing broiler production.
January 22, 2026 06:34 PM
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Moderate oil prices may ease fuel costs, but continued caution in the energy sector could limit rural economic growth.
January 22, 2026 06:00 PM
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From tariff talks in Europe to SCOTUS uncertainty and rising farm losses, analysts say policy and global supply will shape grain markets in the year ahead.
January 22, 2026 12:40 PM
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Large Brazilian crops heighten downside price risk if the weather allows production to reach projected levels.
January 22, 2026 12:38 PM
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