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
With feed supplies running tight, producers can tap into some creative options, according to University of Pennsylvania Veterinarian and Professor Dr. Joe Bender.
November 18, 2025 01:13 PM
·
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities shares an update on post-WASDE grain movement, with corn leading export momentum, soybeans steady, and wheat and sorghum continuing to move selectively.
November 18, 2025 12:20 PM
·
China still has a long way to go before it meets its commitment to buy 12 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans this year.
November 18, 2025 11:23 AM
·
Here is a regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture for the week of Monday, November 17, 2025.
November 17, 2025 05:05 PM
·
National Pork Board Chief Sustainability Officer Jamie Burr shares a closer look at the Pork Checkoff’s Pork Cares Farm Impact Report, a research program to increase trust in the pork supply chain.
November 17, 2025 02:03 PM
·
Ethanol markets remain mixed — weaker production and blend rates are being partially balanced by stronger exports as winter demand patterns take shape.
November 17, 2025 01:24 PM
·
Tariff relief may soften grocery prices, but it also intensifies competition for U.S. fruit, vegetable, and beef producers as cheaper imports regain market share.
November 17, 2025 01:20 PM
·
Strong U.S. yields and steady demand leave most major crops well supplied, keeping price pressure in place unless usage strengthens or weather shifts outlooks.
November 17, 2025 01:17 PM
·
Retail competition and improved supplies are helping offset food inflation, pushing Thanksgiving meal costs modestly lower despite higher prices for beef, eggs, and dairy.
November 16, 2025 03:00 PM
·
