How It Works
Reserve your beef, plan your freezer space, and know what happens next.
1
Reserve Your Beef
Choose a half or whole share. Your non-refundable deposit is $500 for a half or $1,000 for a whole and is credited toward your final beef bill.
2
Processing and Pickup
Once your deposit is received, we arrange processing. Butcher availability varies. We will contact you with your estimated pickup date and details for pickup at the butcher.
3
Prepare Your Freezer
Plan for approximately 6–9 cubic feet for a half share or 12–18 cubic feet for a whole share. Space needs vary with packaging and how you organize your freezer.
Understanding Beef Weights
Live Weight
Live weight is the animal’s weight before processing. Our target is 900–1,100 pounds per whole animal; actual weights vary.
Hanging Weight
The weight of the carcass after initial prep. Your final beef price is calculated as hanging weight multiplied by $5.50 per pound, plus separate processing fees paid directly to the butcher.
Packaged Weight
Packaged weight is the beef you take home after cutting and trimming. It is lower than hanging weight and varies with the animal and your cuts.
Beef Cost Breakdown
Beef is $5.50 per pound of hanging weight. Your remaining beef balance equals your share’s hanging weight × $5.50, minus your deposit. Processing fees are additional and paid directly to the butcher. We accept check, Venmo, PayPal, and cash; email gelcattleranch@gmail.com for payment instructions.