Jillian Roe
Grain Originator - Brigden, Chatham and Tupperville
Great Lakes Grain

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As wheat harvest approaches, preparation goes beyond equipment and storage—it also includes having a clear grain marketing plan. Harvest can be one of the most emotional and fast-moving times of the year for marketing, with prices, basis levels, and delivery opportunities changing quickly. Planning ahead can help remove stress and emotion from decision-making when time is limited.

Start with Storage and Delivery Plannin
One of the first considerations should be on-farm storage capacity. Understanding how many bushels can be stored versus what may need to move at harvest is key to maintaining flexibility. If storage is limited, it may make sense to price a portion of expected production ahead of time or explore delivery options with local elevators. Waiting until harvest begins can sometimes restrict marketing opportunities.

Know the Seasonal Market Trends
Historically, wheat markets tend to weaken in mid-June as crop conditions become clearer and attention shifts to U.S. corn and soybean development. With major reports—such as the June 30 Acreage Report—approaching, having target prices in place before harvest can help capture opportunities when markets move.

Many growers find it challenging to make marketing decisions during busy harvest days. Setting realistic pricing targets in advance, using target offers, or working with a grain originator, can simplify the process and reduce the need to monitor markets from the combine cab.

Match Marketing Decisions to Cash Flow Needs
Harvest is also a good time to review cash flow requirements. Knowing which bushels need to be sold to cover operating expenses—and which can be stored for later opportunities—helps create a balanced plan.

Not every bushel needs to be sold at harvest, but not every bushel should automatically go into storage either. Storage comes with costs, and it’s important to ensure the market is offering enough carry to justify holding grain.

Don’t Overlook Grain Quality
Quality factors such as protein, falling numbers, moisture, and test weight can have a significant impact on final pricing. Reviewing contract specifications and delivery requirements ahead of time can help avoid surprises at delivery and protect value.

Communication Is Key During Harvest
Staying in regular contact with your grain originator and local elevators during harvest keeps you informed of changing market opportunities. Weather events—both locally and globally—can move markets quickly during harvest, creating short windows of opportunity.

Final Thoughts
No one consistently sells the top of the market, but a strong marketing plan helps manage risk and improve consistency over time. Heading into wheat harvest with clear goals, realistic price targets, and a defined storage and sales strategy can make grain marketing more confident—and less stressful—during one of the busiest seasons of the year.