Soybean exports: How to compare offers for delivery to ports and the western border

Logistics terms are an important part of the export soybean price. In early November, bids in Ukraine were reported at $425–430/t CPT port and $430–445/t DAF western border.

These are quotes for different delivery routes, not a direct comparison of transport costs. To assess an offer, the seller and buyer need to agree on the route, the place where the lot will be handed over, and the delivery terms.

What export quotes indicate

According to a market review dated November 3, bid prices changed little over the previous week. Analysts attributed the market’s resilience to strong demand for soybeans and limited supply.

As of November 2, Ukraine had harvested 3.2 million tonnes of soybeans, with an average yield of 2.1 t/ha. These figures provide seasonal context but do not, on their own, determine the delivery cost for a specific lot.

Why prices on different terms cannot be compared directly

CPT port and DAF western border quotes relate to different routes and delivery terms. The difference between the quoted ranges should therefore not be interpreted as the cost of transport or as an indication that one route is more advantageous.

Before agreeing to a deal, clarify exactly where the goods will be handed over, who will arrange transport, and which costs are included in the price. To compare offers, it is useful to request quotes on the same terms and with a clearly specified delivery point.

What to include in a soybean sales listing

• The lot’s dispatch location and available delivery routes.
• The volume and product specifications needed for an initial assessment of the offer.
• Pricing terms: collection or delivery, as well as the specific handover point.
• Whether an alternative route or loading terms can be discussed.

A clear description of the logistics will help buyers on AgroPost compare offers on a like-for-like basis and reduce the number of questions sellers need to answer before negotiations.

What this means for the market

With quotes holding steady, soybean buyers and sellers should focus not only on the price per tonne but also on the handover point and the costs included in the logistics. On AgroPost, specifying delivery terms makes prices clearer and simplifies comparisons between export routes.