Custom rates for harvest vary somewhat within a state or region. Fortunately, most land grant universities publish custom rate survey results that provide average figures for beginning negotiations. In addition, keep in mind that the recent increases in diesel fuel costs will influence custom rate charges. More information on the influence of diesel fuel prices on harvesting costs can be found in the University of Illinois publication, FEFO 05-17, "Effect of Higher Fuel Prices on Machinery Costs." Harvesting custom rate figures can be found in Purdue University's Department of Ag Economics bulletin, EC-130-W.

For more information on this and other topics related to soybean production, contact your state extension specialist or your local extension educator/agent.

Following is the link to the soybean extension specialists: state extension soybean specialist.