AGRICULTURAL: Farming, Livestock, Ranching

CattleUSA.com (Live cattle auctions)

Dunlap Livestock Auction (Livestock)

Superior Livestock Auction (Livestock auctions)

Through out the old West and up to current times---selling / buying livestock at auction has been the method of choice for farmers and ranchers to sell off their herds or purchase livestock to add to their herds . Livestock auctions is where most dairy farmers and cattle ranchers get replacement cattle. Auctions tend to be a loud, frenetic and for most isolated ranchers, a fun social event.

For beginners, livestock auctions can go terribly wrong if you do not understand the process. Know how it works before you begin bidding. The below should get you started with livestock auctions:

Livestock auctions are held year round and they are located in just about every municipality or county that has a farming / ranching community. Note that some auctions deal with specific types of animals. The auctioneer will generally advertise as to the kinds of livestock animals they deal with. Some auctions deal only in beef cattle, while others only sell dairy cows.

Attend several of livestock auctions in order to get a sense of how the method works. Before bidding for you first animal, attend several auctions to get acclimated the to process and familiarize yourself with the terminology. Some of the livestock are sold as a herd, while others are sold individually. Additionally, you can also get an idea as to how much the cows usually sell per pound. Remember--having good information will make your auction experience pleasant and profitable.

Get to the auction early and register with auctioneer. Take your time to inspect the animals before the bidding starts. Ask questions and stay informed so you can intelligently bid on the animals you want. Take note if the livestock you want to bid on will require veterinary services, de-horning, etc. and factor those services into your bidding.

After the bidding is over and you have won, head over to the auctioneer's office to pay for your cattle. At that time, take extra precaution to see if your animals will need veterinary vaccinations, castration and de-horning. In most cases, it's much cheaper to get these necessities taken care of at the auction yard rather than wait until the cattle are brought home. After the sales process is over you will be provided a bill of sale that indicates the value of livestock purchased, veterinary records, and brand markings. File and save these documents, they will be required when the livestock are resold in the future.

When all the formalities are taken care it's time to transport your cattle home. If do not own a cattle trailer, for a fee, the auction manager can arrange for a transport service to get your cattle home.