LUBBOCK, TX – Major U.S. railroads say they have enough locomotives, grain cars and crews positioned for the 2026 harvest, easing immediate concerns about moving another large corn and soybean crop to domestic processors and export markets.
USDA’s August outlook projected a 16-billion-bushel corn crop and record 4.5-billion-bushel soybean crop. Railroads told the Surface Transportation Board’s National Grain Car Council they expect strong transportation demand but no major harvest-service problems.
BNSF, Union Pacific, CSX, Norfolk Southern, Canadian National and CPKC reported harvest-ready equipment and crew plans. Southeastern rail demand could be especially strong because drought reduced the Carolinas’ corn production, increasing dependence on inbound Corn Belt grain.
Soybean crush expansion is also changing traffic patterns. Domestic crush ran 18% above its five-year average, while grain-mill carloads reached a record 61,752 in July as more soybean meal moved toward export gateways.
Longer term, aging railcars remain a concern for short lines, where replacement costs could become significant as older equipment reaches retirement limits.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Rail capacity appears adequate for harvest, but changing crush demand and aging short-line equipment could reshape grain logistics.