As our world and industry continues to evolve and grow an online presence, it’s not surprising that even the most established like cattle auctions can be found online now as well. It is no longer necessary to set up gates and a tent or haul the cattle to a sale barn. It doesn’t take an entire day and hours of driving to buy cattle; it can all be done from your phone or computer. Online auctions provide buyers and sellers true price discovery and provide even more benefits than live auctions.
Selling Online with a Reputable Marketing Company
The first step in either buying or selling at an online cattle auction is choosing the marketing company you are comfortable working with. Look for a well-established, professional team that specializes in your industry with a strong marketing and online presence. This expert team will provide maximum value to both the buyer and seller of the cattle. One of the best ways to learn about marketing companies is through positive word of mouth from someone you trust.After contacting the team you would like to sell with, they will make a visit to your farm to discuss your plans. After viewing your cattle, a professional marketing company will have the knowledge and data to make an accurate valuation and plan of action for the sale. If you are selling your herd, it is recommended to set a sale date at least 30 days in advance of having your cattle evaluated. It is essential you give your marketing team the proper amount of time to promote them to have a successful sale.
Preparing for an online dispersal auction is virtually no extra work for the owner. Your team can work with you on determining a schedule for gathering video of the cattle, vet work, and any testing needed. Your team will need all cattle records for preparing the catalog and advertising. Your marketing team will handle the promotion of the sale so you can keep doing what you do best - caring for and managing your herd!
In contrast to a dispersal, if you are selling a group of extra cows or heifers, they can be included in a weekly online auction and can be listed, sold, and loaded in as short as a week.
Preparing to Buy at an Online Auction
Purchasing cattle online through a professional marketing company can provide both simplicity and convenience. It’s even possible for a buyer to bid anywhere from their computer or phone. This opens a much larger market for sellers, and a much larger selection of animals for buyers as opposed to only what is available at their local auction barn. When purchasing from an online auction, you have the ability to view photos and videos of the cattle prior to the auction, so you can make informed decisions prior to bidding. You have the opportunity to view the cattle in person prior to auction.When the online auction is over, the marketing team will help coordinate shipping the cattle directly from the seller’s farm to your farm. Your marketing team will also inspect the cattle at loading and will ensure they are the same as they were described when they are loaded onto the trailer. A professional marketing team will also give you the option to have a qualified truck driver deliver the cattle to you. This means as a buyer, you don’t have to worry about hauling a trailer to a busy auction barn the day of sale or having them delivered in the middle of the night. It can be worked into your schedule.
By purchasing your cattle through an online auction, you are also removing them from what can be a busy and stressful day at an auction barn. You can be sure the cattle you bid on will be in the same condition as the ones that are delivered to your door.
Be sure to work with your lender prior to participating in an auction, as most marketing companies will require payment in full before the cattle are loaded. Keeping open communication with your lender on what your plans are heading into an auction will set you up for success.
Benefits of an Online Auction
Online auctions enhance price discovery, prioritize animal welfare, and streamline efficiency. The option to purchase cattle online provides many opportunities for buyers and sellers alike, however it is just as important that old fashioned customer service and “cow sense” remains when choosing the marketing company you want to work with. Nothing will impact your experience buying or selling more than working with a team of professionals that provide quality service to both the buyer and seller in all aspects of the transaction. Between reaching a wider audience for sales and prioritizing the health and condition of the animals with minimal transport, it’s no wonder the popularity of online cattle auctions continues to grow.
The opinions stated herein are not necessarily those of GreenStone Farm Credit Services.
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