The Weekly Fill-Up | November 17-21

November 17, 2025

As we move deeper into November, energy market signals are shifting in ways that matter for agribusinesses, farm operations and fleets across eastern South Dakota. With field work largely done, equipment transitioning from harvest to maintenance mode, and heating/drying season nearing, your energy-input decisions now will set the tone for winter operations.

Retail diesel in the Midwest recently reached approximately $3.89 per gallon, up from about $3.77 the previous week and up roughly 10% year-over-year. Although the increase is modest, the trajectory tells an important story: diesel prices are climbing again after a period of relative stability, which means waiting may cost more than buying now. For farmers hauling grain, running late-season field work or moving fuel for storage, locking in volume or scheduling early deliveries could help avoid surprise premiums as winter logistics tighten.

Maintenance oils, greases and hydraulic fluids seldom dominate headlines, but their relevance now is high. Many operations are switching from harvest to machinery maintenance phases—engines will sit idle longer, fluids may degrade in cold, and delivery schedules can be disrupted by winter weather. With supply chains still stretched in some regions, placing lubricant and filter orders ahead of the snow can prevent downtime and premium costs later.

Meanwhile, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) remains one of the more critical but under-discussed inputs. With elevated fleet activity and grain movement still in play, DEF demand remains strong. Storage temperature sensitivity and delivery reliability become more significant as the temperature drops. If you haven’t already scheduled your DEF supply and verified your storage tank conditions, now is the smart time.

Propane continues to slide into a strategic window for purchase. National inventory data shows U.S. propane/propylene stocks at about 105.4 million barrels for the week ending early November, reflecting a comfortable buffer. That said, what matters locally is the delivery timeline, tank capacity, and how early you secure volume. Farm grain-drying operations, shop heating and out-building heat all depend on timely tank fills and clear logistics. With inventories in decent shape now, this is your opportunity to negotiate advantageous terms before the rush of full-blown winter demand hits.

In short, this week’s energy landscape for Sioux Valley Coop patrons is one of strategic timing. Diesel is trending upward, oils and maintenance supplies demand foresight, DEF logistics are critical, and propane presents a buy-window before season accelerates. By acting now—rather than reacting when the weather forces urgency—you’re better positioned to keep your operation efficient, cost-effective and “powered locally.”

Sioux Valley Coop remains ready to deliver not just fuel and inputs, but insights, coordination and regional delivery advantage for our patrons. Let’s close out the harvest season strong and move into winter with energy certainty built into your planning.

Sources

Midwest Retail Diesel Price Data — YCharts / FRED.
U.S. On-Highway Diesel Fuel Prices — U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Propane/Propylene Inventories & Supply — U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Heating Oil & Propane Market Update — U.S. Energy Information Administration.