NASHVILLE, TN – Grain transportation signals were mixed in late June, with stronger year-over-year rail and barge movement but softer weekly rail volume and lower ocean freight rates.
U.S. Class I railroads originated 28,074 grain carloads for the week ending June 20. That was down 3 percent from the previous week, but 8 percent above last year and 29 percent above the three-year average.
Secondary shuttle railcar bids averaged $75 below tariff for July, while non-shuttle bids averaged $38 above tariff. That split points to uneven rail demand, with shuttle capacity less expensive while smaller-volume movements stayed firmer.
Barged grain movement totaled 584,150 tons for the week ending June 27, up 9 percent from the prior week and 1 percent above last year. New Orleans unloadings also improved, with 578 grain barges unloaded, up 44 percent from the previous week.
Ocean grain movement through the Gulf was stronger, but demand for forward vessels softened. Diesel fell 16.4 cents to $4.668 per gallon, still 94.1 cents above last year.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Grain movement remains active, but transportation costs and rail capacity still vary by route and shipping method.