Uniformity. Calves of similar weight (less than 100 lbs.). Similar age (less than 90 days). Same sex. Similar condition (not too fat, not too thin). Uniformity in quantity adds even more value. Uniform semi-load lots of 50,000 lbs. is best. If this is not possible from your operation alone consider collaborating with other cattlemen to pool calves or investigate the marketing potential of the Oklahoma Quality Beef Network sales (website link below).

Management. Buyers want calves that are polled or dehorned. Steers that are castrated and heifers that are open. When these conditions are not met, calves will be discounted.  Furthermore, calves weaned for 45 days, vaccinated (twice), bunk broke and pre-conditioned have more appeal to buyers and accordingly potentially sell at a premium.

Genetics. Calves sired by bulls of similar genetics that appear to be from the same cow herd adds to uniformity. Documentation of genetic potential in the form records of past calf crops health, growth and cost of gain, dressing percentage, carcass weight, carcass quality and cutability add potential value.