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.
In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat.
October 21, 2025 11:57 AM
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Lyndsey Smith with Real Ag Radio joined RFD-TV to share a Canadian perspective on the discussions.
October 20, 2025 03:30 PM
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Ryan Dunsbergen, soybean product manager for Golden Harvest, shares an overview of their new soybean seed lineup and what growers can expect in 2026.
October 20, 2025 02:48 PM
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Bioethanol is becoming a global standard. For growers, that boom comes as drops in Mississippi River levels and in soybean demand occur in tandem, leaving barge space for corn and wheat.
October 20, 2025 01:32 PM
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The government shutdown has touched nearly every sector of the ag industry since it began, and now impacts are spilling over into dairy.
October 20, 2025 12:46 PM
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With China halting U.S. soybean purchases and talks tied to broader strategic issues, growers face renewed export uncertainty.
October 20, 2025 11:52 AM
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Talks highlight the widening role of agriculture in U.S.–India trade policy, though neither side appears ready for major concessions before tariff issues and oil imports are resolved.
October 20, 2025 11:28 AM
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Global trade teams and summit discussions highlight expanding opportunities for U.S. corn and ethanol exports as nations explore renewable fuel options and reduced-carbon energy pathways.
October 20, 2025 11:17 AM
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Slightly higher output amid softer gasoline pull points to steady corn grind — watch regional stocks and export pace for basis clues.
October 17, 2025 04:59 PM
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