Take Advantage of Favorable Markets with the Right Grain Contract
Jul 24, 2026
By GCC Grain Origination Team
No two grain markets are the same, which is why GCC offers a variety of grain marketing contracts to help fit your operation and marketing goals. Two common options are Basis Contracts and Hedge-to-Arrive (HTA) Contracts.
Both contracts separate the cash price into its two components: the futures price and the basis. The difference is which piece you choose to lock in first.
Basis Contract
A Basis Contract allows you to lock in the basis for a future grain delivery while leaving the futures price open to be priced later. This option may be a good fit when basis levels are attractive, but you believe futures prices still have room to improve.
Hedge-to-Arrive (HTA) Contract
An HTA Contract allows you to lock in the futures price for a future grain delivery while waiting to set the basis at a later date. This can be a valuable option when futures prices are favorable, but you expect basis to strengthen before delivery.
Every operation is different, and the right marketing strategy depends on your goals and market outlook. If you'd like to learn more about Basis or HTA contracts, contact your GCC Grain Team. We're here to help you evaluate your options and find the contract that best fits your marketing plan.
No two grain markets are the same, which is why GCC offers a variety of grain marketing contracts to help fit your operation and marketing goals. Two common options are Basis Contracts and Hedge-to-Arrive (HTA) Contracts.
Both contracts separate the cash price into its two components: the futures price and the basis. The difference is which piece you choose to lock in first.
Basis Contract
A Basis Contract allows you to lock in the basis for a future grain delivery while leaving the futures price open to be priced later. This option may be a good fit when basis levels are attractive, but you believe futures prices still have room to improve.
Hedge-to-Arrive (HTA) Contract
An HTA Contract allows you to lock in the futures price for a future grain delivery while waiting to set the basis at a later date. This can be a valuable option when futures prices are favorable, but you expect basis to strengthen before delivery.
Every operation is different, and the right marketing strategy depends on your goals and market outlook. If you'd like to learn more about Basis or HTA contracts, contact your GCC Grain Team. We're here to help you evaluate your options and find the contract that best fits your marketing plan.