LUBBOCK, TX (RFD NEWS) — Shipping U.S. grain to Mexico became more expensive in the first quarter, but export volumes held mostly steady. USDA says landed costs rose from the previous quarter for corn, soybeans, and wheat moving to Mexico by both water and land routes.
Water-route costs increased because barge and truck rates moved higher. USDA says winter weather, ice, and low water on the Mississippi River system helped push barge rates higher from late January into early March.
Ocean freight was mixed quarter-to-quarter but higher year-over-year, supported by strong dry bulk movement and higher bunker fuel prices. Land-route transportation costs eased for soybeans and wheat, while corn rose slightly.
Mexico remained a major buyer. First-quarter U.S. corn exports to Mexico totaled 6.07 million metric tons, up 8 percent from a year ago, while soybeans slipped 5 percent and wheat rose 4 percent.
For producers, Mexico’s steady demand still depends on competitive freight.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Mexico remains a critical grain customer, but higher landed costs can affect U.S. competitiveness.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Higher input costs are making flexible marketing plans and updated break-even targets more important.
April 29, 2026 12:33 PM
·
Rail rulings, export terminal access, and equipment rules are becoming bigger factors in grain shipping costs and reliability.
April 29, 2026 09:00 AM
·
Higher ocean freight rates can add export cost pressure even when grain demand remains active.
April 29, 2026 08:00 AM
·
Weekly export movement stayed solid, with corn and sorghum continuing to show the strongest overall pace.
April 29, 2026 06:00 AM
·
California almond acreage tightens while pistachios shift into an off-year, shaping a mixed outlook for prices and supply in the tree nut market.
April 28, 2026 04:45 PM
·
March cold storage data showed generally tighter year-over-year stock levels across several key meat and dairy categories.
April 28, 2026 06:00 AM
·
