Livestock Equipment and Supplies

Handle your farming and livestock needs with proper livestock equipment and supplies
By Rhyah Fletcher The quality of your livestock supplies can make or break your farming or ranching business. Whether you run a dairy farm, beef farm, poultry farm or any other small animal farm, your livestock handling equipment is as important as the livestock itself.

Companies that specialize in livestock equipment sales can help you choose the best supplies for your livestock business. Certain companies specialize in specific supplies, such as poultry or goats, while others have a broader range of livestock supply. When ordering wholesale livestock supplies, used livestock equipment or any other farming supplies, consider the following:

1. Check that the company has a long standing reputation for providing quality livestock equipment products.

2. Make sure the livestock equipment and supplies you purchase offer the least stress for the livestock, but the most safety for the handler.

3. Inquire whether the company offers financing or leasing options on cattle handling equipment and machinery. Many suppliers already work with a financing company or can recommend a reputable one.

Shop for customizable cattle equipment

The best cattle handling equipment is the kind you can customize for your needs. This includes moveable corrals, moveable cattle maternity pens and custom agricultural curtains.
Try:  Check out the customizable corrals and moveable maternity pens at W-W Manufacturing. Find a variety of cattle supplies and suppliers at Cattlesoft, Inc.

Find small livestock supplies from smaller manufacturers

Small livestock needs, such as poultry equipment and goat handling equipment, is better found at smaller manufacturers who specialize in one or two particular livestock breeds. Smaller manufacturers and suppliers offer everything from clippers to ear tags to incubating systems.
Try:  Premier1Supplies meets the needs of livestock farmers who work with sheep, goats, llamas, alpacas, poultry and more. MacRAE's BLUE BOOK lists a variety of suppliers and manufacturers that specialize in pig and hog farming. Find poultry equipment for chickens and pheasants at FeatherSite.

Research financial companies who lease livestock equipment and supplies

There are a variety of programs aimed at farmers and ranchers that help them save money by leasing large pieces of livestock equipment. Depending on the program, your lease can help you save money on taxes, increase your profits or work out a lease-to-own on the equipment. You can also schedule your payouts during your busy season, when your cash flow is at its peak.
Try:  Check out the leasing options from AGStar Financial Services, ACA. Get an instant quote or apply for financing through Direct Capital Corporation.

• Pay attention to company shipping charges and refund policies. Some companies charge a flat rate shipping fee or offer to waive the shipping fee for livestock supply purchases over a certain amount, while others charge based on weight.