Plans and Pricing

All members are eligible to register for Auctions.
To find out more about our auctions platform, view a sample auction or request more information.

Questions & Answers

Is Mercaris like a CME for organic and non-GMO commodities?

No. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange allows people to exchange derivatives (like futures contracts). Derivatives can be traded between buyers and sellers without the underlying physical commodity ever changing hands.

The service we provide is the exact opposite in that regard. Every single contract that is traded on our platform results in the physical delivery of the underlying commodity. If you place the winning bid on a contract, you will have a truckload (or several truckloads) of grain show up at your doorstep. Likewise, as a seller, you will be responsible for making good on the promise implied by your contract. If you have more questions about this please contact us directly.

What kind of auctions will Mercaris host?

There are several types of auctions we host on our platform. Depending on your needs, whether you wish to buy or sell, and your preferred delivery dates we can suggest the best type of auction for your organization. Please contact us for more information.

What are the contract specifications for auctions?

Mercaris works with the auction holder (whether buyer or seller) in order to set contract specifications including quality specs, volumes, delivery dates/locations, required certifications, auction reserve price and other details.

Does Mercaris charge a fee for auctions?

We only charge a per bushel service fee, and only when orders fill on the trading platform. Mercaris is not a broker--we offer a platform for buyers and sellers to interact directly. Our fees range from $0.05 to $0.10 per bushel, per side based on type of commodity and total volumes traded.

How can I list an auction?

Fill out this interest form and we’ll follow up right away.

How and When will I get paid?

Our system ensures electronic payment promptly--within 5 business days of grain delivery. No more invoicing or waiting 30, 60 days, or longer for payment. Our on-line escrow service reduces payment risk for both buyer and seller.

Does Mercaris handle delivery logistics?

At the conclusion of each auction, we connect the winning buyer and seller so they can arrange for transportation on their own. We do not handle logistics.

How are trade disputes handled?

We are members of NGFA and utilize their artibration services in the event of a contract dispute that cannot be resolved by the parties. For more information you can click here: http://www.ngfa.org/trade-rules-arbitration/rules/

What commodities does Mercaris monitor and where can I see the specs for these commodities?

Commodity Specifications Guide

How does Mercaris collect and handle data?

Reporting Methodology

How does Mercaris know it's making a positive impact in the spheres of agriculture and environment?

Mercaris Impact Report

How is Mercaris different from other data sources for organic, non-GMO or other IP commodities?

There really aren't a lot of third-party sources for information on IP commodity markets. We bring together many different information sources all in one place, including our own original data sets. Our reports allow you to compare foreign grain prices, US food & feed prices, spot & forward prices, price by crop year, region of the US or Canada, and in the case of organic wheat, by commercial grade. Except for the Ceres Report, all of our prices are reported as a delivered price to the first purchaser. We also make it easy to download price information for additional analysis.

How does Mercaris collect its data?

Over 50 different first handlers of grains, located across the United States and Eastern Canada participate in a weekly survey on IP grain cash price information. We don't disclose the identity of our survey participants, but if you are a first handler of organic or non-GMO grains and would like to join their ranks then you're welcome to send an email to [email protected]. Survey participants receive free access to price information for the commodities they help us track.

How often do you update your reports?

We update our reports on a monthly basis; however, during certain times of the year (for example, spring contracting or fall harvest seasons) when we have lots of trade data coming in we’ll update reports weekly.

What crops does Mercaris follow?

Currently we follow organic corn, organic soybeans, and organic wheat. We also cover non-GMO corn and non-GMO soybeans. Our coverage is always expanding and we love to have guidance from the community. Click on the button in the bottom right hand corner of your screen to let us know what you think, or if there are other commodities that are of particular interest to your organization.

Will the Mercaris price be the same as my local price?

Probably not. Our prices represent an average for a particular region. The price that a local elevator or mill is willing to pay will depend on a variety of factors. We hope that both sides of the market can use our price information as a reference point in the decision making process.

How is Mercaris different from the USDA Organic Prices?

	Mercaris	USDA
Farmgate Prices
Delivered Prices
Spot Trades
Forward Trades
Weekly Feed Prices
Biweekly National Feed Prices
Biweekly Regional Feed Prices
Ability to Customize Time Periods
Trade Volumes Included
Regional Prices (including Canada)
Crop Marketing Year