How RangeDirect Works
A simple, transparent way to buy quality meat directly from local producers. No middlemen. No mystery.
Browse Local Producers
Explore verified producers in your area. View their farm practices, animal types, and available listings — from whole animal shares to individual packaged cuts ready to ship.
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
After slaughter, the processor will contact you directly to arrange your cut preferences and pickup time — and to collect their processing fee. Your meat arrives professionally packaged and ready for the freezer.
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?
Yes. What you pay through RangeDirect covers the live animal purchase only. Slaughter and cut-and-wrap (processing) fees are required by law to be paid directly by you to the processor — not through the rancher or the platform. After your animal is slaughtered, the processor will contact you to arrange your cut preferences, pickup time, and to collect their fee. Budget roughly $0.75–$1.50/lb hanging weight for processing, though rates vary by facility.
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 when you place your order to reserve your share. The remaining live animal balance is due before pickup or delivery. Funds are held securely and released to the producer once your order is complete. Processing fees are paid separately and directly to the processor.
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.