How to Set Up Your Farm for Efficient Cattle Crush Use

On a busy cattle yard, the set up matters as much as the equipment. It promotes safe and efficient cattle handling. When you get a properly integrated cattle crush, you save on time, reduce stress, and keep both the livestock and the operator secure. 

Whether you’re working with a permanent yard or portable cattle crushes, getting the layout right is key. Layout decides how smooth the before and after process will be when working on the cattle crush. 

Let’s see what a productive cattle station setup is supposed to look like. 

Start with the Right Location 

Yes, we need to decide on the location first. Before bolting down the cattle crush, take a look at the site. You want a spot that’s: 

• Flat and well-drained 

• Easy to access with vehicles and trailers 

• Close to your main cattle flow 

  
  

You don’t need to place the equipment in a low-lying area as it is prone to water pooling and mud build up. You don’t want slips and delays because of that. And if you’re using portable cattle crushes, choose a spot that’s tough and can be used repeatedly without turning soft and boggy. 

Think About Cattle Flow 

Next thing to think of is how the cattle is supposed to move. Cattle need to be calm and guided for a smooth and swift flow through the yard. If you’re using a race, then the cattle crush should sit at the end of the race. This ensures that cattle are not forcefully turned or met with dead ends. They need to be guided in a seamless flow in a straightforward movement.  

For a better flow using a curved race can help avoid crowding and keep distractions away. 

The smoother the approach, the faster the job. Whether you’re vaccinating, tagging, or inspecting, cattle should walk in without a fight. 

Choose the Right Cattle Crush 

Not all cattle crushes are built the same. Your choice depends on your herd size, handling frequency, and budget. 

RPM Rural offers a range of crushes to suit different operations: 

• Standard cattle crushes for basic handling tasks 

• Heavy-duty crushes for larger herds and frequent use 

• Portable cattle crushes for flexible setups and remote work 

  
  

Look for features like: 

• Side access gates for easy treatment 

• Head bails that lock securely and release smoothly 

• Anti-backing systems to keep cattle moving forward 

• Non-slip flooring for safety 

  
  

If you’re working across multiple sites or need seasonal flexibility, portable cattle crushes are a smart investment. They’re built tough, easy to transport, and quick to set up. 

Set Up for Operator Safety 

Operator safety is something you should never underestimate when making a yard investment. A good crush will protect your cattle and your team as well reducing any injury-related downtime. 

Make sure there’s enough space around the crush for operators to move freely, access gates, and avoid kicks or sudden movements. 

Things you can check if your equipment offers: 

• Partition between operator and cattle 

• Control from a distance 

• Nearside & offside options 

• Features that keep cattle calm 

  
  

At RPM, our cattle crush designs that priorities safety of livestock as well as the cattle. 

Integrate with Your Yard System 

Your cattle crush shouldn’t feel like an afterthought. It should be part of a well-designed yard system that supports efficient handling. 

Consider: 

• Drafting gates before and after the crush 

• Holding pens for pre- and post-treatment 

• Easy access to water and shade 

• Clear paths for cattle to exit without confusion 

  
  

If you’re upgrading your yard or starting from scratch, talk to RPM Rural about cattle yard designs that work with your crush, not against it. 

Maintain Your Equipment 

An older equipment might be expected to be rusty, stuck, and wearied down, but with proper maintenance and up-keep it can look and operate as a brand-new unit. 

Ensure your cattle crush gets regular checks. Loose bolts are tightened, wearied gates are polished, and moving parts are oiled or greased. This extensive maintenance is not required every time. Just give a quick inspection to the equipment after every use and fix whatever looks out of shape. 

Here’s a checklist you can run along: 

• Check hinges, and locks 

• Clean out manure and debris 

• Lubricate moving parts 

• Replace worn flooring or rubber mats 

  
  

Portable cattle crushes should be checked after transport to ensure nothing shifted or loosened. A few minutes of maintenance can save hours of downtime. 

Plan Your Layout Before the Equipment 

Setting up your new cattle station or just want to upgrade the old yard, buying a good equipment isn’t enough. With proper planning, positioning, and integration a seamless cattle yard can be achieved that doesn’t need too much manual interference. 

Whether working with permanent units or portable cattle crushes, the goal is the same: safe, smooth, stress-free handling. 

RPM Livestock Equipment has perfected their cattle crush with years of experience in the field. Their products are truly Australian made for real world Aussie conditions.  

Contact RPM today to get expert advice on setting up your crush system the right way.