Drop-Off Policies

 

How do I get a processing date?

Give us a call at 608-676-4428 to schedule a processing date.

I would like my farm logo on the label.

Please let us know at time of scheduling if you’d like a private label. We will help you get the process started. There is a one time fee for label set-up.

When do I need to drop off my birds by?

We receive birds from 6am to 7:30am. If later than 7:30am we may not be able to receive and you will need to reschedule.

Do I need to bring live birds in a crate?

Yes! USDA Inspectors require poultry to arrive in an approved crate. We offer crates for your use on the side of the building. Please note that we charge a crate fee if our crates are used.

Turkeys are the exception and can come in un-crated.

When can I pick my birds up?

If you want fresh then you will need to pick up same-day.

If you want frozen then pickup will be next day.

What organs do you save?

We can save feet, heart, liver, and necks by request only. Please note: feet cost an additional fee to save.

Is there a minimum amount?

We do not have a minimum amount of birds but we do have a flat fee if you are bringing less than 10 birds.

How early should I set my appointment?

Processing appointments fill very fast and we recommend scheduling as soon as possible based on what scheduling tier you fall into.

I would like an Organic claim on my label.

Please submit your Organic Certificate at time of scheduling to make an Organic label claim. If you do not have a Certificate then you cannot claim Organic on your label!

I have less birds than I scheduled!

Losses happen, we get it! However, for us to keep scheduling efficient we need to know if your scheduled amount has changed. Please update us ATLEAST 14 days before your processing date if you have a significant change in numbers.

Bringing in LESS than 75% of scheduled birds or canceling entirely without a 14 day warning will result in a $50 fee.

How many birds fit in a crate?

This will vary based on size. In general, 9-12 chickens per crate is good spacing.

Do I need to take birds off feed before butchering?

Yes! Birds must be taken off feed 24 hrs before processing. There will be a $1/bird penalty on birds with a full crop. Full crops cause a lot of extra work as we must clean every one to pass USDA inspection.

How can I pay?

We accept check or credit card. Please note a 3% credit card fee.

First Time Drop-Off Guide

If this is your first time processing with us then check out this guide... We want your experience with us to be as easy as possible!

Getting your poultry processed doesn’t need to be intimidating! Keep these things in mind….

We start receiving birds at 6am sharp and all birds need to be dropped by 7:30am. The lot fills quickly so to ensure a timely drop-off we do recommend coming early. Please note: Organic Certified birds need to come first.

If your chickens are coming un-crated then they will need to enter the building in a crate (USDA rules). We have a stack of crates and carts for your convenience stacked on the far right side of the building. Please note, we charge a flat $5 fee if our crates are used. Turkeys do not need to be crated.

You are permitted to come and borrow crates the day before.

We will transport crates into building but you will be responsible for loading crates on carts.

Please have cutting instructions ready. We will ask:

  • Amount of birds?

  • Will we use a private label or our standard Twin Cities label? (please note, private labels will need to be approved prior to processing day).

  • How would you like processed? (Whole, quartered, halved or 8 piece).

    • If cut-up then how many parts per package would you like? (IE how many drumsticks per bag etc).

  • Would you like giblets saved? Feet?

  • What time will you pickup the next day?

Birds will be ready the next day. Please note that they will be frozen and you will need to provide your own boxes, coolers etc.

Payment will be due on pickup and you’re on your way!