Do I need a special freezer?+
A quarter cow fits in a standard chest freezer around 4 to 6 cubic feet. A half cow needs 8 to 10 cubic feet which is a standard garage chest freezer available at Home Depot for around $150 to $200. A whole cow needs 18 to 22 cubic feet. We are happy to advise on exactly what you need before you commit to anything.
How long does the whole process take?+
From your deposit to delivery is typically 2 to 4 weeks depending on processing availability and scheduling. We will give you a specific timeline when you book. Most customers receive their order within 4 weeks.
Why do you require a deposit?+
A deposit allows us to reserve your animal, schedule processing, and ensure availability. Once your order is confirmed, the remaining balance is due before cutting and packaging begins.
What exactly is a quarter cow?+
A quarter cow is exactly half of what you get with a half cow. It gives you a proportional share of all the major primal cuts including steaks, roasts and ground beef. It is the ideal starting point for a family that wants to experience buying direct from a butcher without the larger freezer commitment. You receive the same quality and the same customization as our larger orders, just in a smaller quantity.
What is the actual take home weight?+
A live cattle that weighs around 1,370 lb will yield approximately 850 lb of hanging weight after dressing. Your packaged take home beef represents 60 to 65% of hanging weight after trimming and processing, which translates to approximately 510 to 550 lbs for a whole, 255 to 275 lbs for a half, and 125 to 140 lbs for a quarter (varies by animal). We are transparent about these numbers because we want you to order with accurate expectations.
Can I customize exactly how my beef is cut?+
That is one of the biggest advantages of buying directly from a butcher. You will complete a cut sheet specifying steak thickness, roast sizes, ground beef lean ratio, pack sizes and more. We cut it exactly the way your family eats. That level of customization does not exist when you buy from a supermarket.
Can I split an order with another family?+
Absolutely and it is one of the most popular ways people order. Two families splitting a whole cow is a great arrangement. Each family specifies their own cut preferences and the cost splits right down the middle. Just let us know when you reserve and we will coordinate everything.
Do you deliver to multiple addresses for a split order?+
Yes and this is one of the things that sets us apart. When two families split a whole or half cow we treat them as two separate orders. Each family fills out their own cut sheet, we vacuum seal and label each portion individually, and we deliver to both addresses on the same day. You each get a clean independent delivery with your cuts done exactly the way you want them. No splitting at the door, no confusion. Just two happy freezers.
How long does the beef stay good in the freezer?+
Butcher paper wrapped beef stays good for 6 to 9 months. Vacuum sealed beef lasts 18 to 24 months. We strongly recommend vacuum sealing for the longest possible freezer life and the best quality when you open each package months later.
Will you be carrying other meats besides beef?+
Yes. We are working on adding premium pork and chicken from trusted farm partners. If you want to be notified the moment those become available just mention it in your reservation form or send us a message directly.