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3 Simple Ways to Save Money as a Farmer

Author: Amitava Sarkar
by Amitava Sarkar
Posted: Jan 21, 2015

No one becomes a farmer unless he absolutely loves the profession. It's hard work, but it's fulfilling. It's just a shame that your profits can't always match the level of work you, your family and your employees put in to keep the place running. Even during good years, the diligent farmer cuts back wherever he can to make sure he has enough to make it through the times in the future when things aren't so bountiful. However, as a farmer, you're not only tending to crops and livestock, you're also running a business that barely offers a moment for a break. Trying to balance your books and think about places where you can cut back is a major task in and of itself.

Luckily for the cash-strapped farmer, there are a few fast and simple ways to save significant amounts of money with minimal inconvenience to you and the people who work with you on the farm. It's all about recognizing the things you can do yourself without having to pay someone else to do it for you - so long as those things don't take up too much of your time because you have a lot of things to do every day.

Order Ag Belts Online

No farmer can be in the business long before he's in need of new agricultural belts. Your machines work almost as hard as you do, so they're going to wear down, part by part. If you need new ag belts, save yourself a lot of money by ordering them direct online from a seller who specializes in these parts. Choose the right seller, and the higher quality product will last longer this time, which will extend your savings even more. Plus, if you order them online from a place that offers free shipping, you're also savings yourself the cost of paying for installation. You're probably familiar enough with your equipment to install them yourself, so why pay someone else to do it or buy from a place that's factored installation into the purchase price?

Do Your Own Repairs

Maybe your ag belts don't need to be completely replaced. Perhaps your tractor needs a new engine. Order the parts you'll need from agricultural suppliers with free shipping online and fix your machines yourself. If you can't do it the first time, take a class or ask a friend who can to teach you the ins and outs of repair. It may take some time and a small initial investment, but the farmer who doesn't have to frequently outsource repairs is going to save a lot of money in the long run.

Buy Used Equipment

If your machinery breaks down for good or you need to add a new set of hay balers, combines or swathers to your fleet, purchase used equipment. You'll save a significant amount off the sticker price when you're willing to purchase equipment that's a little worn down. Plus, if it's a simple matter of swapping out a part like an ag belt to get the used equipment up and running, it's still cheaper to buy older machinery and purchase the parts online than to buy machinery that's brand new.

The typical farmer is industrious and resourceful, which means she can save herself some money by taking a more self-reliant approach to the things that she might normally outsource. Every penny counts when it comes to running a successful farm, so cut back on expenditures where you can.

About the Author: Dale Duncan is a third generation farmer from Iowa who knows how hard it can be to turn a profit in the industry. He wants other farmers to know you can find a quality ag belt for less and install it yourself for big savings.

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Author: Amitava Sarkar

Amitava Sarkar

Member since: Nov 27, 2014
Published articles: 349

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