Frequently Asked Questions About Bulk Beef Purchases

Purchasing beef in bulk is an excellent way to secure high-quality, pasture-raised meat at an affordable price. At Riverbend Cattle Company, we’re committed to providing the best Florida beef while making the process as simple and transparent as possible for our customers. Whether you’re considering buying a quarter, half, or whole steer, you probably have a few questions about the process, costs, and what to expect.

This guide answers the most common questions people have about purchasing bulk beef, including the quarter steer buying process and general bulk Florida beef FAQs, so you can feel confident in your decision.

1. Why Should I Buy Beef in Bulk?

Buying beef in bulk has several advantages, including:

• Cost Savings: Purchasing a quarter, half, or whole steer offers significant savings compared to buying individual cuts at retail prices.

• Convenience: With your freezer stocked, you’ll always have high-quality beef on hand for family meals or gatherings.

• Higher Quality: At Riverbend Cattle Company, our beef is pasture-raised and free from hormones and antibiotics, ensuring you get healthy, flavorful meat.

2. What’s Included in a Quarter, Half, or Whole Steer Purchase?

When you buy bulk beef from Riverbend Cattle Company, you’re essentially purchasing a share of the entire steer. Here's what you can expect for each option:

• Quarter Steer: A quarter steer typically provides you with about 105 pounds of beef after processing, depending on the steer’s size and your cut selections. This is ideal for small families or those with limited freezer space.

• Half Steer: A half steer yields around 200 - 220 pounds of beef, giving you a wider variety of cuts and a great balance of steaks, roasts, and ground beef.

• Whole Steer: A whole steer offers 400-440 pounds of beef, perfect for larger families or those who want to split the meat with friends or relatives.

3. How Does the Buying Beef in Bulk Process Work?

The Beef Share buying process at Riverbend Cattle Company is simple and straightforward:

1. Place Your Order/Deposit: Contact us through our website or by phone to reserve your quarter, half, or whole steer. You will need to place a $200 deposit. A deposit is required to secure your share of the steer. This ensures your order is processed in a timely manner.

2. We'll contact you: Once we receive your deposit, we'll reach out either by phone or email. In this conversation we'll let you know when your beef will be ready for pick up. 

3. Pickup: When your meat is ready, we’ll arrange for you to pick it up here at the Ranch Store. We recommend bringing multiple coolers to carry the beef home in. You will also pay the remaining balance at the time of pick up. We ask that the remaining balance be paid with either a check or cash. 

4. What Cuts of Beef Will I Receive?

One of the perks of buying bulk beef is the variety of cuts you’ll receive. While the exact breakdown depends on your the package wether it is a 1/4, 1/2 or a whole, here’s an example of what you can expect: (We have a breakdown of the cuts on the Website page.) 

• Steaks: Bone-In Ribeye, New York strips, sirloin, filet mignon, and more.

• Roasts: Chuck roast, brisket, and Osso Buco(Beef shank).

• Ground Beef: A significant portion of the steer is ground into hamburger meat, which is incredibly versatile.

• Other Cuts: Picahna, London Broil, Shoulder Steak, Sirloin Steaks, Short ribs, Stew Meat, Sirloin Tips, Denver Steaks, Skirt Steak, Flank Steaks, Tri-Tip, Flat Iron Steaks and Sirloin Tips.

• organ meats - Liver, Tongue, Heart (if requested).

5. How Much Does Bulk Beef Cost?

At Riverbend Cattle Company, prices are as follows: (depending on the current market)

• Quarter Steer: priced at $14.77 per pound. 

• Half Steer: priced at $14.31 per pound.

• Whole Steer: priced at $14.09 per pound, offering the best value per pound.

6. How Much Freezer Space Do I Need?

Proper storage is key when purchasing bulk beef. Here’s how much freezer space you’ll need for your order:

• Quarter Steer: Requires about 4 cubic feet of freezer space.

• Half Steer: Needs around 8 cubic feet of space.

• Whole Steer: Requires 16–20 cubic feet, depending on the steer’s size.

For best results, use a chest or upright freezer to keep your meat properly stored and organized. Label packages clearly with the cut and date for easy access.

7. Is the Meat Fresh or Frozen?

At Riverbend Cattle Company, your beef is processed fresh and immediately flash frozen to lock in its quality and flavor. Each cut is vacuum-sealed to prevent freezer burn and ensure a long shelf life. Properly stored beef can last for at least 12 months or more in the freezer without losing its quality.

8. How Do I Know the Beef is High-Quality?

Quality is our top priority at Riverbend Cattle Company. Here’s what sets our beef apart:

• Pasture-Raised: Our cattle graze on nutrient-rich Florida pastures, resulting in healthier and more flavorful meat.

• No Added Hormones or Antibiotics: We raise our cattle naturally, ensuring they’re free from growth hormones and unnecessary antibiotics.

• Sustainable Practices: We follow ethical and sustainable farming methods, prioritizing animal welfare and environmental stewardship.

9. Can I Share a Bulk Beef Purchase with Others?

Absolutely! Many of our customers split a whole or half steer with friends, family, or neighbors. This is a great way to enjoy the benefits of bulk beef without needing as much freezer space or upfront cost. If you’re splitting with others, we recommend dividing the cost and cuts evenly to ensure everyone gets a fair share.

10. Are There Any Hidden Costs?

When you buy from Riverbend Cattle Company, transparency is key.

The price we give you is an all-inclusive price, so there are no surprises.  (Pricing may Vary from time to time.)

11. What If I’ve Never Bought Bulk Beef Before?

If this is your first time purchasing bulk beef, don’t worry! Our team at Riverbend Cattle Company is here to guide you through the process. We’ll explain everything from choosing your cuts to storing your meat and answer any questions you have along the way.

12. How Long Does the Process Take?

From the time you place your order to when your beef is ready for pickup or delivery, the process typically takes 2–4 weeks. 

13. What Makes Riverbend Cattle Company Different?

As a family-owned ranch, we take pride in offering premium Florida beef with a personal touch. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Commitment to Quality: From pasture to plate, we prioritize quality and flavor in every cut.

• Customer Support: We’re here to answer your questions and ensure a smooth buying experience.

• Local Roots: Supporting Riverbend Cattle Company means supporting sustainable ranching and the local economy.

Purchasing bulk beef from Riverbend Cattle Company is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, high-quality Florida beef while saving money and supporting local ranching. If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!