NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — U.S. grain transportation developments this September span policy, rail tariffs, and export activity. Six industry associations are urging the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to clarify its federal preemption authority under the Interstate Commerce Commission Termination Act, citing growing uncertainty and conflicting state regulations. The STB said it may issue a formal policy statement by the end of the year.
On the rail side, CSX announced higher tariffs for 2025/26 corn and wheat shipments to domestic destinations, effective October 1. Export rates remain essentially unchanged. Meanwhile, STB harvest plan filings show that western carriers, such as BNSF, UP, and CPKC, are increasing grain capacity, while eastern carriers, including CSX and Norfolk Southern, anticipate slightly fewer grain trains during peak harvest.
USDA reported export sales for the new marketing year at 36.27 million metric tons—up 11 percent from last year. Weekly corn sales totaled 1.23 mmt, soybeans 0.92 mmt, and wheat 0.38 mmt. Grain rail traffic rose 9 percent week-over-week, while barge shipments increased modestly but remain 48 percent below last year. Ocean freight rates to Japan edged up from the Gulf but held steady from the Pacific Northwest. Diesel fuel averaged $3.75 per gallon, 21 cents higher than a year ago.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: Higher domestic rail tariffs and mixed capacity shifts will influence grain movement this harvest. Strong corn exports provide momentum, but logistics costs remain a critical factor.
Georgia has regained its HPAI-free status after a swift response to October’s detection. Commissioner Tyler Harper urges producers to stay vigilant and maintain biosecurity.
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USTR Jamieson Greer signals a narrower trade deal with China, adding more market uncertainty. The Farm Bureau also supports reviewing China’s missed trade commitments under the Phase One.
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Southern producers head into 2026 with thin margins, tighter credit, and rising agronomic risks despite scattered yield improvements.
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Record yields and exceptionally low BCFM strengthen U.S. corn’s competitive position in global markets.
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Credit stress is building for row-crop farms despite steady land values and slight price improvements.
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Mike Steenhoek, with the Soy Transportation Commission, shares his outlook on current grain stocks and transportation lines amid bumper crops filling bins across the United States.
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American soybean and corn leaders, along with Canada’s AgriFood sector, testified before the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office in support of the trade pact between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
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