How RangeDirect Works
A simple, transparent way to buy quality meat directly from local producers. No middlemen. No mystery.
Browse Local Producers
Explore local producers and their listings, from live animal shares to packaged cuts. Ask the seller about processing and fulfillment before ordering.
Select Your Order
Choose a quarter, half, or whole animal share priced per head or per pound of live weight, or order individual cuts and packages at a fixed price. Larger shares offer better per-pound value.
Secure Your Share
Animal shares require a 25% deposit to reserve your order — this covers the live animal purchase. The remaining live animal balance is due before pickup. Packaged cuts are paid in full at checkout. Processing and slaughter fees are separate and paid directly to the processor at pickup.
Processor Contact & Pickup
Coordinate pickup or delivery with the producer. For custom-exempt shares, the processor may contact you about cut preferences, pickup, and their separate fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an animal share?
An animal share lets you purchase a quarter, half, or whole portion of a live animal directly from a local producer. It's one of the most economical ways to buy high-quality, locally raised meat in bulk.
What's the difference between a share and a packaged cut?
Shares are larger bulk purchases priced per pound of live weight or per head — great for families who want to stock a freezer. Packaged cuts are individual items (like a pack of ribeyes or ground beef) priced per package and ready to ship, just like ordering from a butcher shop.
Do I pay the processor separately?
For custom-exempt live animal shares, the price paid through RangeDirect covers the animal purchase. Slaughter and processing fees are separate and paid directly to the service providers, not through RangeDirect. Ask the producer or processor about their rates before ordering. Packaged cuts are paid for at checkout.
How much freezer space do I need for a share?
A quarter beef share typically requires 4–5 cubic feet of freezer space. A half share needs 8–10 cubic feet. We recommend a dedicated chest freezer for whole shares.
How does the deposit work for animal shares?
A 25% deposit is collected at checkout. Once the producer confirms availability, the deposit can be released to them and may no longer be refundable. The remaining balance is collected before pickup or delivery. For custom-exempt shares, processing fees are paid separately to the service provider.
Can I resell the meat I receive?
No. Under federal custom-exempt slaughter rules, the processed meat is labeled "Not for Sale" and is exclusively for your personal use — meaning you, your household members, your employees, and your non-paying guests. Reselling custom-exempt meat is prohibited by federal law.
How do I receive my order?
After your animal is processed, the Custom Exempt Processor will contact you directly to arrange cut preferences, pickup scheduling, and payment for their services. Producers can also coordinate with you through the Platform's messaging system.
Ready to get started?
Browse Available ListingsBy purchasing on RangeDirect you agree to our Terms & Conditions. Producers agree to our Seller Agreement.