Investing in a quality cattle chute can transform daily tasks on your ranch—from reducing stress on your herd to boosting your team’s safety and efficiency. But with so many brands and models available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Before you make a purchase, consider these critical factors to ensure you pick a chute that delivers long-term value.

  • Design and Flow: Look for chutes with low-stress designs, such as quiet features, ease of use and wide entry points, to keep cattle calm.
  • Secure Restraints: Proper head gates and lock mechanisms help reduce the risk of injuries—for both livestock and handlers.

2. Build Quality & Durability

  • Material & Construction: Get something that won’t quit in tough conditions. Heavy-duty steel or powder-coated finishes can withstand frequent use, weather, and the occasional rowdy steer.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Consider chutes that are easy to service, with minimum to no lubrication points and replaceable components.

3. Ease of Use

  • Adjustable Settings: Does the chute allow for quick adjustments that lets you handle different herd sizes or weights? Make sure that your chute is easy to adjust with minimal extra steps.
  • Ergonomics: Look for features like pull levers or hydraulic systems that minimize the physical strain on workers. When your chute is designed with you in mind, you’ll notice fewer injuries and faster work.

4. Throughput & Efficiency

  • Reduced Bottlenecks: A well-designed chute should streamline the entire cattle handling process, minimizing the need for extra labor.
  • Add-On Features: Further optimize your operations with accessories—like scale attachments or palpation cages.

5. Service & Support

  • Dealer Network: Having a reliable local dealer can make all the difference when you need installation, maintenance, and parts.
  • Warranty & Backup: Ensure you have peace of mind with a robust warranty and responsive customer support.

Next Steps

With the right chute, you’re not just upgrading equipment—you are significantly improving the day-to-day on your ranch—saving time, reducing injuries, and ultimately boosting your bottom line. Don’t settle for anything less than a chute that covers you on all fronts: safety, durability, efficiency, and after-sale support.

Find Out Which Arrowquip Chute Fits Your Herd