For anyone looking to purchase a cow half cow, or quarter cow directly from a rancher it’s important to understand how hanging weight factors into the price you’ll pay. But what exactly is hanging weight, and how does it compare to the per-pound price of beef you see at the grocery store? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down what hanging weight really means, how it impacts the cost of buying meat from a farm, and provide tips for getting the best deal when purchasing beef directly from a producer.
What is Hanging Weight?
Hanging weight refers to the weight of the beef carcass after slaughter, once the head, hide, hooves and internal organs have been removed. This unfinished cut of meat is then sent to the butcher for processing into steaks, roasts, ground beef and other retail cuts.
Hanging weight does not account for the loss of bones, fat and other waste that occurs during butchering. The final yield of consumable beef products from a carcass is typically 60-75% of the hanging weight.
When purchasing beef directly from a rancher, the price is often quoted per pound of hanging weight rather than the finished retail cuts. This allows the farmer to accurately calculate processing costs. It also provides the customer with a consistent base price, regardless of the animal’s live weight or butcher yield.
Average Hanging Weight Price per Pound
Hanging weight prices vary depending on the region breed of cattle feeding methods and other factors. Here are some typical price ranges
- Ground beef cows: $2.50 – $3.50 per lb hanging weight
- Grain-finished steers: $3.00 – $4.00 per lb
- Grass-finished steers: $4.00 – $6.00 per lb
- Organic/heritage breeds: $6.00 – $8.00 per lb
Hanging weights for an average steer are between 550-850 lbs. So a quarter cow (half of a half cow) at $3.50/lb will cost $220-$300 just for the hanging carcass alone.
Other costs like slaughter, processing, packaging and freezing will add $.50-$1.00/lb or more. When all is said and done, expect to pay about $5.50-$9.00/lb for packaged retail cuts from a quarter cow.
Converting Hanging Weight to Retail Cut Costs
To estimate the per-pound price of packaged cuts, you’ll need to convert the hanging weight price using a yield percentage. Here’s a simple formula:
Hanging Weight Price x Yield Percentage = Approx. Retail Cut Price Per Pound
For example, if hanging weight is $5.50/lb at a 70% yield:
$5.50 x 0.70 = $3.85 per lb estimated retail cut price
Here are typical beef yield percentages:
- Ground beef: 70-85%
- Less tender cuts (chuck, brisket): 65-75%
- Middle meats (ribs, loin): 55-70%
- Tenderloin: 45-55%
Shoot for an average 70% yield unless you request a higher ratio of ground beef. Remember you also have to factor in processing fees.
Comparing Retail Beef Prices
Once you calculate the price per pound for packaged cuts, you can compare that to grocery store prices. Grass-fed ground beef runs $6-$12/lb at major retailers. Cuts like sirloin, ribeye or tenderloin can cost $18-$30/lb or more.
Buying beef by the quarter cow winds up costing at least 25-50% less than retail for comparable quality meat. Savings of $100 or more per month are typical for an average family.
What’s the Downside to Purchasing Beef by Hanging Weight?
The main drawback is you don’t get to pick and choose exact cuts. You’ll get a standardized assortment of steaks, roasts, ground beef and sometimes organs. If you only want ground beef, you’ll pay more per pound than just purchasing ground beef cuts directly.
You also need a large freezer to store a quarter cow or more. But for most families, the extra cost savings outweighs the inconvenience of buying a whole carcass versus individual retail packages.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal on Beef Hanging Weight
Follow these tips when purchasing beef by the quarter, half or whole carcass:
- Ask about all fees up front – slaughter, butcher, packaging, freezing, etc.
- Calculate your break-even price per lb for retail cuts.
- Specify a higher ground beef ratio if you want more.
- Request untrimmed retail cuts for a higher yield.
- Compare pricing between farms and processors.
- Go in with other families to get better bulk rates.
- Purchase during fall when prices are lower.
- Ensure proper freezer space is available before purchase.
Buying beef by the carcass takes more planning but can save big bucks over buying individual cuts at the store. Understanding how hanging weight factors into per pound pricing helps ensure you get the best deal when purchasing directly from a rancher or meat producer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Hanging Weight Pricing
What is included in hanging weight?
Hanging weight includes the headless, hideless carcass of the animal after slaughter. It does not account for waste removed during processing. Only the bones and meat remain.
How much does a half cow cost on average?
Expect to pay $800-$1200 or more for a half beef cow depending on the weight, breed and quality. A quarter cow runs $400-$600 typically.
How many pounds of meat come from a whole cow?
A 1,000 lb steer will yield approximately 450-700 lbs of packaged cuts from a whole carcass at 60-70% yield.
Is the hanging weight price just for the beef?
No, the hanging weight price covers the live animal only. Additional slaughter, butcher and packaging fees will apply. Always clarify what’s included.
Can I specify the types of cuts I want?
Most processors have standard cutting instructions, but you can request more or less of certain items like ground beef ahead of time.
How much freezer space do I need?
Plan on needing at least 1 cubic foot of freezer space for every 25-30 lbs of packaged beef. A quarter cow needs 10-15 cubic feet.
How long will the beef last frozen?
Properly packaged and frozen at 0°F, beef will last 9-12 months in a chest freezer before quality starts to decline.
What are the best beef breeds for quality?
Angus, Hereford, Devon, and heritage breeds like Texas Longhorn provide excellent marbling and flavor. Grass-finished is preferable.
Is locally raised beef better?
Grass-fed local beef is typically fresher and didn’t endure long transport. Supporting local farms also helps the community.
Understanding how hanging weight affects beef pricing helps ensure you get the best value when purchasing directly from a producer. With the right information and preparations, buying a quarter, half or whole cow can save considerable money over buying cuts at the grocery store. Know your costs up front, determine an expected yield, and enjoy the benefits of farm-fresh beef for pennies on the dollar.