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.
Grain shippers face lower freight values thanks to weak soybean exports and strong rail service, but barge traffic and forward Gulf loadings suggest continued uncertainty as harvest ramps up.
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