NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — Grain transportation activity remains elevated across rail and export channels, signaling strong demand movement even as river traffic softened seasonally. New data show railroads continuing to carry a growing share of grain logistics, reinforcing rail’s expanding role in U.S. agriculture.
U.S. Class I railroads originated more than 32,000 grain carloads for the week ending January 10, up 22 percent from the prior week and 26 percent from last year. Secondary railcar values reflected that demand, with January shuttle bids averaging $325 above tariff, rising week to week and sharply higher than a year ago. Non-shuttle bids remained modest but stable.
Longer-term trends confirm rail strength. Class I railroads moved a record 1.38 million grain carloads in 2025, the highest total since federal tracking began. Gains were widespread, led by Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Kansas City, reflecting strong export flows to Mexico and expanded Midwest grain handling capacity.
Barge movements declined 15 percent week to week but stayed above year-ago levels, while Gulf export loadings and vessel lineups remained strong. Ocean freight rates to Japan were steady to slightly higher, supporting export competitiveness.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Rail continues to carry a larger share of the grain load, increasing sensitivity to rail capacity, labor, and pricing conditions.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Rail consolidation could affect grain basis, freight rates, and service reliability across major producing regions.
February 25, 2026 06:00 AM
·
For communities that depend on agriculture as their primary economic engine, the recession is not defined by headlines on Wall Street. It is defined by the quiet disappearance of the businesses that once processed, serviced, and supported the crop.
February 25, 2026 05:00 AM
·
Expanded global trade access boosts long-term export demand potential for U.S. ag products.
February 23, 2026 03:03 PM
·
RFD Farm Legal & Tax expert Roger McEowen shares guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, its impact on renewable energy and agriculture, and what producers should know moving forward.
February 23, 2026 02:36 PM
·
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
February 23, 2026 01:40 PM
·
For the broader agricultural industry, a railroad antitrust case in Kansas could lead to the dismantling of legacy regulatory shields, creating a more fluid, market-driven transportation grid that prioritizes moving crops efficiently over protecting historic rail monopolies.
February 23, 2026 11:35 AM
·
