The U.S. Department of Agriculture's latest Grain Transportation Report reveals mixed trends in export sales and transportation for the week ending March 15, 2025.
Export sales of corn, soybeans, and wheat for marketing year 2024/25 totaled 33.05 million metric tons, down 2% from the previous week but up 17% from the same time last year. Notably, net wheat export sales surged 131% from the previous week to 0.78 million metric tons.
Rail transportation saw improvements, with U.S. Class I railroads originating 26,046 grain carloads, a 7% increase from the previous week and 13% more than last year. However, shuttle secondary railcar bids decreased to $568 above tariff, $214 less than the previous week.
Barge movements showed significant growth, totaling 738,436 tons, up 93% from the previous week and 59% more than the same period last year. The number of grain barges moving downriver increased to 507, a substantial rise from the previous week.
Ocean transportation faced challenges, with 27 oceangoing grain vessels loaded in the Gulf, 23% fewer than the same period last year. The rate for shipping grain from the U.S. Gulf to Japan remained unchanged at $46.25 per metric ton.
These fluctuations highlight the dynamic nature of the grain transportation sector, influenced by various factors including global demand, weather conditions, and logistical constraints.
