One of the most significant aspects of a grain farmer is whether they have on-site storage capabilities like grain bins and silos. Building these facilities is a significant cost, but below, we explain why every farmer should consider investing in on-farm grain storage and the value the facilities offer.
Eliminate Grain Elevator Fees
The alternative to on-site grain storage for farmers is to pay to store it at a communal grain elevator along with other farmers. The grain elevator stores the grain and keeps it dry and secure. While grain elevators can be affordable initially, they do charge many fees to farmers, from transaction to handling to dryer fees.
These fees may seem affordable at first, but they can quickly add up, and after so many years, they can negatively impact a grain farmer’s profit margins and expansion capability. Investing in on-farm grain storage facilities is the better value long-term as it eliminates these expenses and gives farmers more direct control over how their grain is stored and handled.
Reduce Trucking Expenses
Another annoying expense that comes with storing grain off-site is trucking fees. Renting trucks, hiring drivers, and paying for gas quickly adds up to a lot of money and leaves farmers’ profits at the mercy of gas prices—which are notoriously unpredictable.
It’s also common for delivery trucks to be delayed for any number of reasons that affect all drivers—road closures from construction, weather issues, and traffic. With an on-farm storage facility and receiving systems, trucking expenses are dramatically reduced as the only transport needed is from the fields to the farm.
Get Government Help
The most significant barrier to farmers is that a lot of money and resources are required to establish on-farm grain storage, but there are also government programs to help reduce the burden of this investment. The Farm Storage Facility Loan Program provides low-interest financing for farmers to build or upgrade permanent commodity storage facilities like grain bins and silos.
The government understands the benefits these facilities provide farmers and that because they benefit farmers, they benefit everyone in getting affordable and quality food products. Farmers can obtain up to $500,000 worth of loans toward new grain storage facilities.
Conclusion
Obviously, investing in new grain bins and silos is not a small investment, but the advantages are clear when you take a step back and look at the big-picture value. From saving money on grain elevator and trucking fees to low-interest loans, farmers have every reason to invest in their grain storage capabilities.
Every mile counts on the road, but what happens when the wheels stop turning matters just as much. For trucking companies, trailers are revenue-generating assets that must be taken care of. That means ignoring where and how you store them is a silent profit killer.
Buying farmland for the first time is an exciting venture, opening up possibilities from starting a family farm to making a long-term investment. But before you plant your first seed or bring in livestock, it’s crucial to do your homework. A successful purchase depends on more than just the price tag. Here are five essential things every first-time farmland buyer should know to make a wise and informed decision.
Most drivers understand that their tires are crucial for a safe ride. Yet, many overlook how significant weather changes can impact tire performance and overall driving safety.
Winter storms are sweeping across the US, bringing snow emergencies in the Northeast and flooding in the Pacific Northwest. Stay safe with driving tips, shelter resources, and pet care guidance, plus direct links to emergency services.
Use official sources for live alerts and road conditions. Follow your local authorities' advice and guidance immediately by staying off roads or evacuating.
Current situation across the United States
Severe winter weather is affecting multiple regions across the country. In the Northeast, heavy snow and ice are creating hazardous travel conditions, while the Pacific Northwest is dealing with widespread flooding, evacuations, saturated ground, and powerful winds. Staying prepared, remaining aware of conditions, and knowing where to find shelter are essential for keeping both people and pets safe.
Warehouses reach capacity quickly. Products evolve, demand shifts, and shelves overflow with obsolete materials. Operations managers often prioritize acquisition and distribution but overlook the final stage of the product lifecycle. This negligence creates operational bottlenecks and safety hazards. A proactive plan clears space for high-value assets and mitigates financial loss.
