What to Expect When Buying Your First Beef Share
A complete timeline guide for first-time buyers. Learn exactly what happens from signup to pickup, what to expect at each stage, and how to prepare for your first beef share purchase.
Complete Timeline Overview
The entire process typically takes 3-6 months from signup to pickup, depending on when the animal is ready for processing.
Step-by-Step Timeline
Sign Up & Set Preferences (Day 1)
Create your account and tell us your preferences:
- Share size (quarter, half, or whole)
- Farming practices (grass-fed, organic, etc.)
- Location preferences
- Budget range
What happens: We add you to our buyer list and start matching you with farmers in your area.
Start Your Search & Reserve (1-3 months)
When a matching share becomes available:
- You receive an email notification
- Review farm details and pricing
- Reserve your share online
- Pay deposit (typically 25-30%)
What happens: Your share is reserved, and the farmer knows you're committed. Processing timeline is confirmed.
Fill Out Cut Sheet (2-4 weeks before processing)
You'll receive a cut sheet to customize your order:
- Specify steak thickness preferences
- Choose roast sizes
- Select ground beef options
- Request specialty cuts if desired
What happens: Your preferences are sent to the processor, who will cut your beef exactly as specified.
Processing (2-3 weeks)
The animal goes to the processor:
- Animal is processed at USDA-inspected facility
- Cut according to your cut sheet
- Vacuum-sealed and frozen
- Labeled with cut type and date
What happens: You'll receive updates on processing status. Final weight and pricing are confirmed.
Final Payment & Pickup (Week 3-4)
Your beef is ready for pickup:
- Pay remaining balance
- Schedule pickup time and location
- Bring coolers or freezer bags
- Pick up your packaged beef
What happens: You receive your beef, take it home, and start enjoying quality local meat!
What to Expect at Each Stage
Communication
You'll receive email updates at each stage: when you're matched, when processing starts, and when your beef is ready. You can also contact your farmer or our team with questions anytime.
Timeline Flexibility
Processing dates can vary based on when animals are ready. Most farmers will give you 2-4 weeks notice before processing, and you can usually adjust your cut sheet up to 2 weeks before.
Pricing Adjustments
Final pricing is based on actual hanging weight, which may vary slightly from estimates. You'll know the exact cost before final payment. Most variations are within 5-10% of the estimate.
Pickup Options
Most pickups are at the processor or farm. Some farmers offer delivery for an additional fee. You'll coordinate the exact location and time with your farmer.
Pickup Day Checklist
Bring Proper Storage
Large coolers with ice packs, or freezer bags if you're going straight home. Your beef will be frozen, but you want to keep it cold during transport.
Have Payment Ready
Bring final payment (check or cash, depending on farmer preference). Some accept credit cards or bank transfers.
Verify Your Order
Check that you received all your cuts and that everything is properly labeled. Don't hesitate to ask questions if something seems off.
Plan Your Freezer
Make sure your freezer has space and is at 0°F. Organize space before pickup so you can quickly transfer your beef from coolers to freezer.
Ask Questions
This is a great time to ask your farmer about cooking tips, storage recommendations, or anything else you're curious about.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
Be Patient
The process takes time - animals need to grow, and processing takes weeks. Don't expect instant gratification, but the wait is worth it for quality beef.
Ask Questions
There's no such thing as a stupid question. Farmers and our team are happy to help you understand the process and make the best choices.
Start Simple
For your first share, consider standard cut options. You can always get more creative with custom cuts on your next order once you know what you like.
Keep Records
Save your cut sheet, pricing, and notes about what you liked. This will help you make better choices for your next beef share.
Ready to Start Your Beef Share Journey?
Now that you know what to expect, join our buyer list to be notified when shares become available from trusted farmers in your area.
Get Started