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HELP
Frequently asked questions.
Straightforward answers to common questions about buying, selling and using OpenLivestock.
SECTION A
How OpenLivestock works.
What does OpenLivestock actually do?
OpenLivestock brings cattle buyers and sellers together. Sellers provide the details of cattle they want to sell, we create and promote the listing, and registered buyers can review the opportunity. Where there is interest, we help connect buyer and seller so they can discuss the cattle and agree the sale directly.
Is OpenLivestock replacing the livestock market?
No. OpenLivestock gives farmers another way to buy and sell cattle. It sits alongside livestock markets, agents and private trading, providing a practical farm-to-farm option when that suits the buyer and seller. The aim is simply to make it easier for more buyers and sellers to find one another.
Do buyers and sellers speak directly to each other?
Yes. We believe the conversation between buyer and seller is an important part of trading cattle. A listing, photographs and video can provide a lot of information, but buyers will often want to ask further questions. OpenLivestock helps make that introduction so both parties can discuss the cattle and practical arrangements directly.
Who is responsible for agreeing the final sale?
The final agreement is between the buyer and seller. OpenLivestock provides the platform, promotes the cattle and helps bring the parties together, but the buyer and seller agree the final price, payment arrangements, collection, transport and any other practical details between themselves.
Does OpenLivestock.co.uk pay me for my cattle?
We don't – the buyer pays you directly. The expectation would be that the cattle would be paid for by Bank Transfer as the cattle go on the lorry. However, the choice on how you undertake the transfer of money in exchange for cattle is yours to agree with the buyer.
SECTION B
Selling cattle.
How do I put cattle up for sale on OpenLivestock?
Once registered, you can provide us with the details of the cattle you want to sell, together with suitable photographs and video where available. We review the information before the listing goes live and can help make sure buyers have the information they need to properly consider the cattle.
What does it cost to sell cattle through OpenLivestock?
Our standard seller commission is 1% of the value of the sale, capped at a maximum of £16 per animal and £600 per transaction. The aim is to keep the cost clear and predictable. Commission becomes payable when a successful sale is completed through OpenLivestock.
What does OpenLivestock do to help sell my cattle?
We do more than simply put a listing on the website and wait. We notify relevant registered buyers about new cattle and use our own communication and promotional channels to help listings reach a wider audience. The aim is to create genuine buyer interest and give each consignment the best opportunity to sell.
Do I have to accept an offer for my cattle?
Not with a normal direct sale. You remain in control of whether you agree a deal with an interested buyer. With a Timed Auction, however, bids are binding and the seller sets a confidential reserve beforehand. If the reserve is reached, the highest successful bid determines the outcome of the auction.
What happens if my cattle do not sell?
If cattle do not sell through a normal listing, we can discuss what happens next with you. Where a Timed Auction finishes below reserve, OpenLivestock will approach the highest bidder first to see whether a deal can be agreed, and can then work down through the other bidders if appropriate.
SECTION C
Buying cattle.
Do buyers pay a fee to OpenLivestock?
No. OpenLivestock does not charge buyers a commission or buying fee. Buyers can review the opportunities available to members, make enquiries and bid in Timed Auctions without an OpenLivestock buyer charge. Any payment for cattle is made directly to the seller under the arrangements agreed between both parties.
How do I see the full cattle listings?
Full current listings are available to registered OpenLivestock members. The public website may show headline information about cattle that are available or have previously sold, but you will need to join or log in to see the complete listing information and pursue a current opportunity.
How does a Timed Auction work for buyers?
Registered buyers place anonymous bids in pence per kilogram, with bids increasing by a minimum of 2p/kg. If a bid is placed close to the advertised closing time, the auction is extended by five minutes to allow other bidders to respond. Buyers do not pay an OpenLivestock bidding fee.
What if the cattle I am looking for are not currently listed?
Tell us what you need. Registered buyers can let OpenLivestock know the type and number of cattle they are looking for, where they are based and any particular requirements. This helps us understand current buyer demand and identify potentially suitable opportunities when new cattle are put forward.
What happens if I'm successful in a Timed Auction?
If the seller's reserve has been reached and you are the highest bidder when the auction closes, your bid is binding. OpenLivestock then brings you and the seller together so you can complete the transaction directly, including agreeing payment, collection, transport and the other practical arrangements for the cattle.
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