LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD NEWS) — Grain movement remains active across export channels, but uneven demand and rising fuel costs are shaping marketing opportunities heading toward spring delivery windows.
Railroads originated 27,733 grain carloads for the week ending January 31 — 9 percent above last year and 6 percent above the three-year average. Secondary shuttle bids dropped sharply week to week, signaling adequate railcar supply.
River traffic improved but remained historically weak. Barged grain totaled 265,900 tons, up 40 percent from the prior week but still 57 percent below a year ago. Gulf unloads fell 13 percent, pointing to a slower export pull-through.
Ocean demand strengthened as 39 vessels loaded at the Gulf, 18 percent above last year. Freight to Japan increased to $53.75 per metric ton from the Gulf and $30 from the Pacific Northwest.
Diesel averaged $3.688 per gallon, slightly above last year, keeping shipping costs elevated into planting season.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Adequate transportation capacity exists, but fuel costs and soft river demand could widen basis risk.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Farmers are closely watching upcoming U.S.-China trade talks as rising fertilizer and diesel costs continue to pressure exports, margins, and rural economies.
Stronger overseas demand for both fuel ethanol and feed co-products continues to reinforce corn use beyond the domestic market.
Based on USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation, pork exports increased by six percent in March compared to the previous year, while beef exports weakened overall.
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney joins us to discuss geopolitical trade tensions, energy market volatility, and what global shifts could mean for U.S. agriculture exports.
New trade access, tariff concerns and international negotiations are reshaping the global beef market.
Ohio farmer Chris Gibbs joins us to discuss planting progress, weather conditions, and how geopolitical tensions are clouding his growing season outlook as input concerns continue to escalate.
