Harvest · July 2025 · 5 min read
Poor logistics are one of the biggest sources of lost time during harvest. Planning your truck routes, bin capacity, and elevator delivery windows before the combine starts rolling keeps the operation moving efficiently from first cut to last load.
A general rule is two trucks per combine — one loading in the field while the other is in transit or unloading. Calculate your actual need by dividing round-trip haul time by the time it takes to fill a grain cart. Longer haul distances or slow elevator unloading may require a third truck to prevent the combine from stopping.
Inventory your on-farm bin capacity and verify that drying and aeration systems are operational before harvest begins. Calculate expected bushels per field based on yield estimates and confirm you have enough space to handle the first several days of harvest in case elevator lines get long. Clean bins thoroughly and treat for stored-grain insects before filling.
Contact your elevator or grain buyer to understand their receiving hours, turnaround times, and any delivery appointment requirements. Some elevators offer extended hours during peak harvest or provide premium pricing for off-peak deliveries. Having a backup delivery option — a second elevator or on-farm storage — prevents the combine from sitting idle during extended elevator wait times.
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