NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Rail access disputes, trucking cost pressures, and new fertilizer train programs are reshaping agricultural transportation as producers and agribusinesses prepare for the 2026 season.
Canadian National Railway (CN) has asked the Surface Transportation Board to confirm its right to serve an ADM grain elevator near Springfield, Illinois. CN claims Union Pacific has blocked access by refusing to qualify CN crews, limiting competition at a facility also served by Norfolk Southern. CN argues the timing is significant because UP is seeking regulatory approval to acquire Norfolk Southern, raising broader concerns about market access and rail competition for grain shippers.
Meanwhile, the American Transportation Research Institute’s annual industry survey shows trucking companies remain focused on economic conditions, lawsuit abuse reform, and insurance costs. Drivers continue to cite compensation, truck parking, and language requirements as their top concerns, highlighting ongoing labor and cost challenges across rural freight networks.
On the fertilizer front, BNSF Railway has launched a new seasonal unit train program running January through June. The program allows shippers to reserve large fertilizer trains without auctions or prepayment, though new tariff increases of $5 per ton for urea and phosphates take effect January 1.
Despite China’s sharp drop in grain purchases this year, new USDA export data this week shows that even some buying activity from the trade giant still moves the markets.
December 16, 2025 12:20 PM
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Corn and wheat exports remain supportive, but weaker soybean demand — especially from China — continues to pressure oilseed markets.
December 16, 2025 12:08 PM
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China’s pullback is hitting core U.S. commodities hard, reshaping export expectations for soybeans, cotton, grains, and livestock.
December 16, 2025 07:00 AM
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Slower grain movement may pressure basis, but falling diesel prices could help offset transportation costs.
December 16, 2025 06:00 AM
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Fertilizer markets face uncertainty after President Trump raised the possibility of tariffs on Canadian imports, with analysts warning of supply and pricing risks. Josh Linville with StoneX provides a fertilizer industry outlook.
December 15, 2025 01:35 PM
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A new study found that retaining the EPA’s half-RIN credit protects soybean demand, farm income, and crushing-sector strength while preserving biofuel market flexibility.
December 15, 2025 12:15 PM
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“I’m not sure where this bridge goes,” trader Brady Huck with Advanced Trading told RFD-TV News earlier this week.
December 12, 2025 03:32 PM
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Strong Farm Credit finances help cushion producers, but prolonged low crop margins could strain renewals in 2026.
December 12, 2025 11:42 AM
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Canadian tariffs would raise costs for potash, ammonia, and UAN, increasing spring fertilizer risk.
December 11, 2025 01:16 PM
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