Firm demand sustains grain transport in the USA

The demand for grain transportation in the United States maintained a steady pace throughout 2025, with barge and railcar volumes above the recent average. Data from the December 4 report indicate that Class 1 grain rail movement exceeded the average of the previous three years, reflecting a consistent flow of cargo across the country. Railcar loading remained at a high level for much of the year. In the last twelve weeks, the volume was 9% above the average, accompanied by an improvement in service indicators. Train speed, according to the responsible authority, exceeded the benchmark of the same weeks by 3%, reinforcing the efficiency of land transport. China's absence in the soybean market in October reduced the pressure on the secondary rail market. Last year, trips by one of the main operators cost an average of $1,280 per railcar, while in October of this year the average value fell to about $680 per railcar. In river transport, the total grain sent by barges for the year ...