NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — Ocean freight rates for bulk grain shipments climbed from the second to the third quarter of 2025, tightening cost pressures on exporters moving corn, wheat, and soybeans out of the U.S. Gulf and Pacific Northwest. According to data from O’Neil Commodity Consulting, rates to Japan rose sharply quarter-to-quarter, even though year-over-year costs remain lower and remain well below the recent four-year average.
Third-quarter Gulf-to-Japan rates averaged $54.36 per metric ton, up 17 percent from spring, while PNW-to-Japan rates averaged $29.08 per ton, up 7 percent. Gulf-to-Europe rates followed the same pattern. Rising Chinese demand for iron ore, coal, and steel exports helped lift global vessel use through July and August, pushing grain freight rates higher.
Operationally, shippers also contended with supply-chain disruptions, including Argentina’s low Parana River levels that slowed grain loading and raised vessel costs in September, as well as Chinese Golden Week stockpiling.
Looking ahead, vessel supply has grown 3 percent year over year, which could moderate rates, but China’s renewed soybean purchases are expected to increase Panamax demand.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Higher ocean freight raises export costs just as global grain competition intensifies.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
Broader export demand helps stabilize prices and supports stronger marketing opportunities over time.
December 24, 2025 03:00 PM
·
Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-IA, details how the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” Act (OBBBA) supports farmers, biofuels, and rural communities with tax breaks, crop insurance relief, and ag infrastructure.
December 23, 2025 02:01 PM
·
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains why the 2026 USMCA review could directly affect dairy access, produce competition, and export reliability for U.S. farmers and ranchers.
December 23, 2025 01:04 PM
·
Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.
December 23, 2025 12:12 PM
·
Reviewing risk management now can help dairy and livestock producers enter 2026 with clearer margins and fewer surprises.
December 22, 2025 03:19 PM
·
Stronger rail movement and lower fuel prices are easing logistics, even as export pace and river conditions remain uneven.
December 22, 2025 02:12 PM
·
Recent USDA export sales data show China has been active in the U.S. market, but analysts tell RFD-TV News that the timing is a key clue.
December 22, 2025 12:45 PM
·
Tight feeder supplies and lower placements indicate continued support for the cattle market, with regional impacts heightened in Texas by reduced feeder imports.
December 22, 2025 10:10 AM
·
Cattle markets are watching the Cattle-on-Feed Report for signs of tighter supplies, while USMEF warns limited China access is cutting producer profits.
December 19, 2025 01:05 PM
·
