NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — Lower transportation costs are helping U.S. corn remain competitive in export markets, while soybean demand continues to face pressure from global competition. USDA data shows fourth-quarter shipping costs declined, supporting corn movement even as soybean exports weakened.
Transportation costs from the Midwest to Japan fell both quarter-to-quarter and year-over-year. Lower barge and truck rates drove much of the decline, offsetting slightly higher ocean freight costs. That helped reduce total landed costs for corn through both Gulf and Pacific Northwest routes.
Soybean costs moved in the opposite direction. Higher farm values pushed total landed costs slightly higher, despite similar transportation savings. That reduced competitiveness in global markets.
Export trends reflect the shift. Fourth-quarter corn exports rose sharply, supported by demand from Asia and Latin America. Soybean exports dropped significantly, driven by weaker demand from China and stronger competition from Brazil.
Looking ahead, USDA projects corn exports to rise this marketing year, while soybean exports are expected to decline.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Lower shipping costs favor corn, while soybeans face pressure.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Freight volatility increasingly determines export margins, making logistics costs as important as price in marketing decisions.
January 14, 2026 06:00 AM
·
China’s beef policy risk stems from domestic volatility, making export demand inherently unstable. Jake Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on cattle markets, risk management, and producer sentiment.
January 13, 2026 02:13 PM
·
USDA flash corn sales, Cattle on Feed and Inventory reports, and beef packer antitrust concerns dominate January agricultural market news.
January 13, 2026 01:53 PM
·
Larger grain stocks increase supply pressure, but strong fall disappearance — especially for corn and sorghum — suggests demand remains an important offset.
January 13, 2026 01:02 PM
·
Record corn and sorghum crops boost feed grain supplies, while reduced soybean and cotton production tighten outlooks for oilseeds and fiber markets.
January 13, 2026 12:53 PM
·
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to provide analysis on the January WASDE report and expectations for grain markets going forward.
January 13, 2026 12:34 PM
·
