NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Federal transportation decisions are influencing how grain reaches export markets. That matters because rail access, terminal service, and equipment availability can affect shipping speed, costs, and competitiveness for agricultural products.
The Surface Transportation Board approved Norfolk Southern’s control of the Norfolk & Portsmouth Belt Line Railroad, a 36-mile switching line serving the Port of Virginia. Regulators said the line must remain a neutral switching carrier operated on a uniform, cost-plus basis.
That ruling matters for grain exports. In 2025, the Port of Virginia handled 2.4 million metric tons of containerized grain exports, 5 percent above the prior 5-year average. The switching railroad also serves Perdue AgriBusiness’s Chesapeake export terminal, the only deepwater bulk grain terminal on the East Coast.
At the same time, BNSF sold new forward grain-train contracts at strong prices. In its first auction for yearlong direct destination train service, five contracts sold for a combined $3.1 million. Another 17 four-month contracts beginning in August sold for $4.5 million.
Agricultural groups also told the Federal Maritime Commission that ocean carriers’ chassis rules create delays, raise costs, and increase export risk when truckers and shippers cannot freely choose equipment.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Rail rulings, export terminal access, and equipment rules are becoming bigger factors in grain shipping costs and reliability.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Rising input costs may squeeze margins and shift planting decisions. Scott Metzger with the American Soybean Association discusses fertilizer market pressures and what is at stake for farmers as planting season ramps up.
April 10, 2026 12:18 PM
·
Shaun Haney with Real Ag Radio joined us to break down the USMCA review and what Canadian producers and exporters should be watching in the months ahead.
April 09, 2026 02:39 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the application process for Stages 1 and 2 of the USDA’s Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, and what farmers can expect as the deadline approaches.
April 09, 2026 01:59 PM
·
Fertilizer relief may be limited despite the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz this week. AgriSompo’s Brooks York discusses marketing strategies, crop insurance considerations, and other tips for producers navigating volatility this planting season.
April 09, 2026 01:25 PM
·
Reduced driver supply may increase freight costs this season.
April 09, 2026 12:38 PM
·
Overall, the report suggests a shift toward more comfortable supply levels, with demand emerging as a key factor to watch in the months ahead.
April 09, 2026 12:13 PM
·
