Feeder Calf Marketing
Reputation feeder cattle are no accident. Information adds value. Today, buyers have access to more Angus cattle and generic “black” calves than any other type. Amid the marketing claims and hype, buyers are most likely to focus on cattle that add value to the best-known Angus genetics.
Ownership transfers vary from traditional auction markets to direct sales to cattle feeders or feedlots. With several outlets for marketing your calf crop, documentation of the value you’ve added is key. Regardless of how and when you intend to sell, tools and strategies for capturing a higher price are available below.
The Angus Advantage
In a marketplace flooded with black-hided cattle, it can be challenging to distinguish your premium Angus genetics.
The American Angus Association’s AngusLink® program offers the solution as a way to validate the breed makeup and quantify the genetic performance potential of your cattle. The program combines USDA Process Verified Programs with an optional Genetic Merit Scorecard® to give buyers more confidence in your calves.
Cattlemen who use the Genetic Merit Scorecard within AngusLink can identify qualifying groups of calves with the Targeting the Brand™ logo. The logo appears on a scorecard when calves meet a live animal spec (predominantly black hided), earn a GMS Grid score of 125 of higher, and meet the minimum marbling requirement. To meet the minimum marbling requirement, the registered Angus sires of the enrolled calves must average a marbling EPD of +0.65.
The Profit Power of Record Keeping
Keeping detailed and accurate records is essential for maximizing profitability and ensuring your cattle meet the standards of today’s premium markets. From conception to sale day, both genetic and management data serve as proof for what your cattle are capable of.
Primary value factors include genetics, weight, weaned status, age range, health program, nutrition, conception statuses and delivery timing. By maintaining these records, you unlock your cattle’s full potential, paving the way for better management decisions and added demand.
Marketing Options
If you prioritize quality genetics in your herd, consider a premium marketing plan to realize the full value of your feeder calves.
Specialty Sales
State, regional and county livestock organizations often hold special sales by assembling large groups of similarly managed cattle to attract multiple buyers. Each sale has specific participation requirements, so plan ahead to develop a management strategy to ensure your cattle meet the criteria.
Retained Ownership
Retained ownership is one of the most effective ways to capture the full feeding and carcass value of high-quality cattle. Top-performing cattle marketed on a value-based grid or formula can earn significant premiums. This may not be ideal for operations with unknown genetics, limited preconditioning or tight cash flow
Direct Marketing to Feedyards
Do your homework on potential feedyards ahead of time. Highlight the value you’ve built through documentation and stay involved after the sale by visiting the feedyard and initiating potential data-sharing conversations. Access to performance data empowers you to refine management decisions and create long-term value.