Beef Share Buyer FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Thinking about buying a beef share but have a few questions first? We've got you covered. Here's everything you need to know before reserving your Quarter, Half, or Whole share of premium Dexter beef.
Deposits & Reserving Your Share
How does the deposit work?
Your deposit reserves your share and is applied directly toward your final balance — it's not an extra fee. Here's what to expect per share size:
- Quarter Share (~150 lbs hanging weight) — Deposit: $324.63 | Estimated total: $1,198.50
- Half Share (~300 lbs hanging weight) — Deposit: $599.25 | Estimated total: $2,397.00
- Whole Share (~600 lbs hanging weight) — Deposit: $1,198.50 | Estimated total: $4,794.00
You'll pay the remaining balance during 10-15 days of processing date.
When is the remaining balance due?
The balance is due before or at the time your beef is processed. We'll reach out with your final invoice and payment details as your processing date approaches.
Are shares limited?
Yes — shares are limited each processing round. Once they're gone, they're gone! We recommend reserving early to secure your spot.
Processing Dates
When is beef processed?
Processing dates vary by batch. Our current available shares are listed on the product page. Check our shop page for the most up-to-date availability.
How will I know when my beef is ready?
We’ll contact you directly as your processing date approaches with all the details — final balance, cut sheet, and delivery or pickup info.
Is the beef inspected?
Yes! All our beef is KDA inspected.
Delivery/Pickup
How do we receive our?
You can pickup your beef directly at our processor (Family Tree Meats) or I can deliver with a fuel surcharge.
Do you ship nationwide?
No! We are currently just selling in Kansas at this time. Hopefully in the future we will ship our beef nationwide.
🥩 Freezer Space Needed for Beef
Whole Beef
Estimated take-home: 360–420 lb
Recommended freezer: 20–25 cubic feet
A 25 cu. ft. chest freezer gives customers additional room for organizing and storing other items.
Half Beef
Estimated take-home: 180–210 lb
Recommended freezer: 10–14 cubic feet
A 14 cu. ft. freezer is a practical choice for most half-beef customers.
Quarter Beef
Estimated take-home: 90–105 lb
Recommended freezer: 5–7 cubic feet
A 7 cu. ft. freezer provides some extra room, depending on packaging and the customer's existing freezer space.
Note: Take-home weight is typically 55–65% of hanging weight after processing. A standard upright or chest freezer (5–7 cu ft) works well for a Quarter share. A dedicated chest freezer is recommended for a Whole share but not necessarily.
Cut Selection & Customization
Can I choose my own cuts?
Yes! All shares include customizable cuts. Once you've reserved your share, we'll walk you through the cut sheet process with our processor so your beef is packaged exactly how you want it.
What's included with standard processing?
The Whistle Stop Ranch covers standard processing costs — that's included in your share price. You'll work directly with the processor to choose your cuts (steaks, roasts, ground beef, etc.).
Are there optional specialty items?
Yes! You can add specialty items like minute steaks, stew meat, premade patties, fajita meat, beef bacon, and beef sausage. These are handled directly with the processor and are not included in your share price.
Can I change my cuts after I order?
Cut selections are finalized when the cut sheet is submitted to the processor. If you have questions or need to make a change, reach out to our processor as early as possible and they’ll do our best to accommodate you.
Still Have Questions?
We love hearing from our customers! Contact us anytime — we're happy to help you find the right share size for your family and answer any questions about our cattle, our ranch, or the buying process.
From our family to yours — thank you for supporting local agriculture and trusting The Whistle Stop Ranch.