On Sept. 30, export grain barge rates at principle inland origins averaged 76 to 123% higher than the 5-year average, according to the most recent USDA Grain Transportation Report. Rates had escalated in anticipation of a record harvest of corn and soybeans. However, rain has delayed the harvest during October and has lessened any new demand for barge services, according to the USDA.

As of Oct. 21, barge rates are 38 to 61% higher than average at major origins, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The lower Illinois River barge rate for Oct. 21 was 873% of tariff ($40.51 per ton), $9 less per ton than the Sept. 30 rate of 1,067% of tariff ($49.51 per ton). The number of grain barges unloaded in the Gulf has averaged 874 per week during October, 33% higher than the 5-year average.

According to the Grain Transportation Report, during the week ending Oct. 18, barge grain movements totaled 609,099 tons—7.2% lower than the previous week and 23.4% lower than the same period last year. During the week ending Oct. 18, 381 grain barges moved down river, down 9.3% from last week; 909 grain barges were unloaded in New Orleans, unchanged from the previous week.