NASHVILLE, TN – Grain transportation ended December with mixed signals as strong rail performance partially countered sharply weaker river and ocean movement. USDA’s latest Grain Transportation Report shows capacity remains available, but usage continues to shift by mode as winter conditions and export timing influence flows.
U.S. Class I railroads originated 28,750 grain carloads during the week ending December 20, up 1 percent from the prior week and 8 percent higher than a year ago. Rail volumes were also 10 percent above the three-year average, reflecting continued demand for rail service even as overall grain movement softens late in the year. Shuttle railcar premiums declined to $863 per car above tariff, down $202 from the previous week, while non-shuttle premiums eased to $38 above tariff, signaling modest short-term capacity relief.
Barge movement weakened further. Grain shipments totaled 404,341 tons, down 20 percent from the prior week and 57 percent below the same period last year. Fewer barges moved downriver, and unloadings in the New Orleans region dropped sharply, reflecting reduced export demand and winter river constraints.
Ocean shipping also slowed, with fewer vessels loaded and scheduled compared with last year. Diesel prices fell to $3.50 per gallon, offering limited but welcome cost relief.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Rail strength is helping stabilize grain movement, but river and export slowdowns continue to limit overall logistics momentum.