U.S. Grain Stocks Build as Corn, Sorghum Lead

Larger grain stocks increase supply pressure, but strong fall disappearance — especially for corn and sorghum — suggests demand remains an important offset.

corn grain silo stock photo_input costs and producer inflation_adobe stock.png

Adobe Stock

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. grain inventories climbed broadly as of December 1, reflecting larger supplies of corn, soybeans, wheat, and sorghum heading into winter, according to the latest Grain Stocks report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Corn and sorghum posted the largest year-over-year increases, reinforcing a supply-heavy tone for feed grains despite solid fall usage.

Corn stocks totaled 13.3 billion bushels, up 10 percent from a year earlier. On-farm inventories jumped 14 percent, while off-farm stocks rose 4 percent. At the same time, disappearance from September through November reached 5.29 billion bushels, well above last year, signaling strong feed, ethanol, and export demand even as supplies rebuilt.

Soybean stocks increased 6 percent to 3.29 billion bushels. Off-farm inventories rose sharply, up 10 percent, while on-farm stocks were only slightly higher. Fall disappearance fell 20 percent from last year, reflecting slower export movement and ample global supplies.

All wheat stocks totaled 1.68 billion bushels, up 7 percent year over year. Off-farm wheat inventories climbed 11 percent, while on-farm stocks declined modestly. Wheat disappearance during the fall quarter ran 9 percent above last year, suggesting steady domestic and export usage.

Sorghum stocks surged 26 percent to 268 million bushels, with both on- and off-farm holdings rising equally. Disappearance also increased sharply, up 27 percent, highlighting active feed and export demand alongside expanding supplies.

Overall, the NASS report highlights higher grain supplies entering 2026, with corn and sorghum balances drawing particular market attention.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Larger grain stocks increase supply pressure, but strong fall disappearance — especially for corn and sorghum — suggests demand remains an important offset.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Related Stories
Corn and sorghum exports remain strong; soybean demand lags.
Secretary Rollins is signaling a possible reopening of the southern border to Mexican feeder cattle as officials work to manage the threat of the New World Screwworm.
USDA’s Quarterly Grain Stocks report shows increased supplies across all major commodities, with corn, soybeans, and wheat stocks all rising compared to a year ago. Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities discusses producer and market sentiment ahead of the key report.
Acre shifts reflect margins, costs, and market opportunities.
Lower shipping costs alone will not restore export competitiveness.
Rising fuel costs will soon increase grain transportation expenses.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Agricultural groups warn that the deal could limit competition and raise transportation costs for farmers
The Trump Administration’s new rule limiting CDL renewals for immigrant truckers is seeing mixed reactions in agriculture. While some support the change, it is raising concerns about higher freight costs and impacts on U.S. grain export competitiveness.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the updates to crop insurance subsidies, additional benefits for new farmers, and eligibility considerations for those entering the program.
Higher prices are bringing relief to markets, but rising input costs are putting pressure on the producers.
Regulatory changes may influence farm costs and operations.
Lower hop stocks may support prices in the near term.