Missouri Farm Custom Rates Rise as Input Costs Climb

By Blake Jackson

The cost of hiring custom farm services in Missouri has climbed steadily, with fieldwork rates increasing an average of 9% since 2023, according to the latest update from University of Missouri Extension’s “Custom Rates for Farm Services in Missouri.”

Among the largest increases were fertilizer and chemical application charges, which rose nearly 30% over the past two years. Survey coordinator Drew Kientzy, an MU Extension senior research analyst, said higher operating expenses are driving those increases.

“Over the past five years, farmers have seen significant increases in insurance premiums across many types of coverage,” said Kientzy.

“Spraying and fertilizing operators are likely to carry substantial insurance policies to cover potential crop and environmental damage. I expect that rising fixed costs, such as insurance, contribute significantly to higher rates.”

Labor expenses have also played a role in pushing rates higher. Kientzy explained that fertilizer and chemical applications typically require additional workers to keep operations moving efficiently.

“To maintain efficiency, a second operator is typically needed to tender water, chemicals and fertilizer. According to the USDA, farm labor costs in the Corn Belt increased by 32% from 2019 to 2025, reaching an average of $20.91 per hour. With multiple workers involved, rising labor costs are likely to contribute to higher service rates,” Kientzy said.

While application costs increased sharply, custom harvesting rates remained mostly unchanged compared to 2023. Kientzy said a large supply of used combines on dealer lots and auction markets has created more competition.

“Used combines, especially those between 5 and 15 years old, are abundant on dealer lots and auction yards across the corn belt,” Kientzy said.

Planting costs increased a more modest 7%, partly because affordable used planters are helping some farms reduce operating costs and compete more aggressively in the custom work market.

The updated “Custom Rates for Farm Services in Missouri” publication is available as free download through University of Missouri Extension.

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