Portable vs Stationary Creep Feeder Options for Your Operation

Portable vs Stationary Creep Feeder Options for Your Operation

A creep feeder is a calf-only feeder that lets nursing calves eat supplemental feed while cows are kept out. The portable vs stationary creep feeder choice comes down to how the feeder sits on the ground. Apache lists creep feeder models on wheels and models on skids. If you move a feeder between pastures, compare the models offered on wheels. If the feeder will stay at one feeding site, compare stationary models and ask a dealer which configuration fits your setup.

What Is the Difference Between Portable and Stationary Creep Feeders?

The difference is the chassis under the feed box, not the feed itself. Apache offers portable and stationary creep feeder models with heavy-duty construction in its creep and self feeder product line, with 35 to 300 bushels listed across that line. So the feed box is rarely the deciding factor. Your pasture layout and the equipment you have on hand usually are.

Apache product names show the two configurations plainly: some models are listed on wheels, and others are listed on skids. Ask a dealer how a specific model should be moved and what equipment that takes. That single design decision shapes how you get feed to calves, how quickly you can set up, and what you service over the years.

When Does a Portable Creep Feeder Make Sense?

A creep feeder with wheels is worth a close look when the calves keep moving. Rotational grazing, leased grass, and scattered summer pastures all mean the feeder has to follow the herd instead of the herd walking back to the feeder.

Operations That Benefit Most

Models on wheels may be worth comparing when your operation includes:

• Pastures where you expect to relocate the feeder during the season.
• Feeding areas without a permanent feeder location.
• Routes where you can safely move the specific on-wheels model.
• Sites where you may want the option to reposition the feeder.

Consider whether you may need to relocate the feeding area during the season. If so, discuss the moving requirements for the specific on-wheels model with a dealer.

What Moving a Feeder Requires From You

A wheeled feeder is only useful if you have the right vehicle and a reasonable path. Rough creek crossings, soft gate approaches, and tight corners all matter more with a loaded feeder behind you. Ask your dealer about the correct hitch setup and safe moving practice for the model you are considering, since those details vary by unit and are not something to guess at.

When Is a Stationary Feeder the Better Fit?

A stationary creep feeder may fit an operation that plans to keep the feeder at one feeding site. Compare on-skids models with on-wheels models based on the number of planned moves and the equipment available to reposition the feeder.

Apache lists creep feeder models on skids as well as models on wheels, including skid models with top racks and panel options in the same creep feeder category. Review the specific model configuration with a dealer before choosing, since what you service and how you reposition the unit depend on that model.

Before selecting a stationary configuration, choose the intended feeding location and discuss any future repositioning needs with a dealer. The appropriate setup depends on the specific model and your operation.

How Do Capacity and Towing Compare?

Capacity is sized by how many calves you feed and how often you want to refill. Apache lists 35 to 300 bushels across its portable and stationary creep feeder line. Confirm the capacities available in the configuration you are considering with a dealer. A bigger box means fewer trips with the feed truck, but it also means more weight on the chassis when the feeder moves.

Cost discussions should include the model configuration, the equipment needed to reposition it, and the work involved in your planned feeding routine. Your dealer can quote current pricing for the models you are weighing.

How Do You Decide Between Them?

Work through the decision in order instead of starting with the price tag.

1. Count the moves. Write down how many times the feeder would need to relocate in one creep feeding season. If you expect several moves, compare on-wheels models with skid-mounted models.
2. Check your equipment. If you do not have a loader available, ask a dealer whether an on-wheels model suits your route and towing equipment.
3. Size the capacity. Match bushel capacity to your calf numbers and refill interval, then confirm the available sizes with your dealer.
4. Walk the route. Look at gates, crossings and soft spots between pastures before you commit to moving a loaded feeder.
5. Plan the feeding site. For stationary units, choose the location you intend to use for the season.

If you are still working out sidedness, panel options and calf access, our guide on how to choose a creep feeder for calves covers that side of the decision. For feeding grown cattle out on grass rather than creep feeding calves, the range feeder line is the category to look at instead.

Frequently asked questions

Choosing the Right Portable vs Stationary Creep Feeder for Your Pastures

The portable vs stationary creep feeder question is really a question about your ground. Count the moves, look at what you have to pull or lift with, and size the box to your calf numbers. Producers on rotation or leased grass often look first at models on wheels. Those feeding in one home trap often start with skid-mounted models. Either configuration should be selected on your planned feeder location, expected moves, and the capacities available for that model.

Apache Equipment builds livestock feeding and handling equipment and sells it through dealers. To compare configurations, request literature or find your nearest dealer, visit Apache Equipment.