WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — U.S. diesel demand is running above last year while inventories remain historically tight, leaving farms and freight networks exposed to supply disruptions. Energy Information Administration data shows distillate fuel supplied averaged 3.7 million barrels daily over four weeks, up 4.7 percent.
Distillate production increased to 5.4 million barrels daily, and stocks rose by 1.1 million barrels. Even with that build, inventories remained 9 percent below the five-year average.
Tighter diesel supplies could affect fieldwork, grain hauling, rail operations, trucking, and export transportation as harvest demand increases. Refinery outages, hurricanes, or pipeline problems could quickly pressure regional prices.
Gasoline demand remained softer, with the four-week average 0.3 percent below last year. Crude inventories fell 7.2 million barrels and remained 7 percent below normal, while refineries operated at 97.2 percent capacity.
Propane inventories stood 34 percent above the five-year average, improving availability for crop drying and rural heating. Producers will watch diesel stocks, refinery operations, and storm activity heading into harvest.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong diesel demand and lean inventories increase harvest-season fuel and transportation risk.
