NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Grain transportation activity showed mixed signals in late November and early December, with rail volumes easing from the prior week, barge traffic falling sharply from last year, and ocean shipping steady, while diesel fuel prices declined.
U.S. Class I railroads originated 25,680 grain carloads for the week ending November 29. That total was down 17 percent from the previous week but remained 17 percent higher than the same week last year and 4 percent above the three-year average. December shuttle secondary railcar bids averaged $442 per car above tariff, down $120 week to week but still elevated compared to last year.
Barged grain movements totaled 548,900 tons for the week ending December 6, down 9 percent from the previous week and 25 percent lower than the same period a year ago. Grain barges moving downriver declined, and unloadings in the New Orleans region slipped 8 percent from the prior week.
Ocean shipping activity was stable, with freight rates to Japan unchanged. The national average diesel price fell 9.3¢ to $3.665 per gallon, though it remains above year-ago levels.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Slower grain movement may pressure basis, but falling diesel prices could help offset transportation costs.
Kansas State University agricultural economist Dr. Gregg Ibendahl discusses rising diesel prices, the influence of global oil markets, and the potential impact on farmers heading into the spring planting season.
March 16, 2026 11:21 AM
·
Rising protein demand supports long-term trade in feed and meat.
March 15, 2026 05:00 AM
·
Vive’s Art Graves shared insights on the new Phobos FC 360 foliar fungicide, its advantages for Canadian growers, early performance results, and the company’s ongoing commitment to advanced crop protection solutions.
March 13, 2026 03:31 PM
·
Kentucky Firefighters Jonathan and Lonny Epley and Extension Agent Leann Martin tell us about a new portable grain bin rescue tool, and its potential to enhance safety for farmers and first responders nationwide.
March 13, 2026 03:03 PM
·
China’s stricter inspection rules prompt Cargill to pause soybean exports from Brazil, briefly lifting U.S. soybean prices as traders anticipate potential shifts in global trade, as export demand remains supportive across all major U.S. commodities.
March 13, 2026 12:57 PM
·
Suderman joins Tony St. James in the RFD Studios to discuss how geopolitical tensions are triggering global transport disruptions, new inflation pressures, and other challenges for agriculture to navigate.
March 13, 2026 11:08 AM
·
