Union and dock owners are expected to ratify a six-year contract this week

The shipping industry expects the Longshoremen’s Association to ratify their new contract this week, putting an end to months of uncertainty for farmers looking to move their grain.

“Hopefully, by the end of February, early March, there will be a new six-year contract, which, again, that’s very important to us, because that provides predictability, additional predictability when it comes to our supply chain,” said Soy Transportation Coalition’s Mike Steenhoek.

That vote could come as soon as tomorrow. Steenhoek expects both parties to pass the contract, which will be in effect until 2030.

Related Stories
Here is a regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture for the week of Monday, November 17, 2025.
UMN Extension’s Emily Krekelberg outlines today’s top farm stressors, key signs of mental health distress in rural communities, and the resources available for support.
National Pork Board Chief Sustainability Officer Jamie Burr shares a closer look at the Pork Checkoff’s Pork Cares Farm Impact Report, a research program to increase trust in the pork supply chain.
Ethanol markets remain mixed — weaker production and blend rates are being partially balanced by stronger exports as winter demand patterns take shape.
Strong U.S. yields and steady demand leave most major crops well supplied, keeping price pressure in place unless usage strengthens or weather shifts outlooks.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

CattleCon 2026 kicks off February 3 in Nashville. Kristin Torres with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association joined RFD-TV to share more about what’s ahead at this year’s event.
Farmland values remain stable, but weakened credit conditions and lower expected farm income signal tighter financial margins heading into 2026.
The White House is now preparing to restore an Endangered Species Act (ESA) rule from the first Trump Administration.
Jerry Cosgrove with American Farmland Trust explains why farmers and ranchers should start their estate planning now.