The Custom Rate Guide (2024) summarizes rates paid by Wisconsin farmers who hired custom work, custom operators and farmers who performed custom work, and machinery dealers who rented out equipment for field operations:

• Tillage
• Fertilizer and chemical application
• Manure services
• Planting
• Harvest operations 
• Hauling and trucking
• Machinery rental

The rates in this report are based on the 2024 Wisconsin Custom Rate Survey of Wisconsin farmers, farm managers and custom operators. Please note that these custom rates are intended to serve as a general guide. Actual rates will vary depending on local market conditions.

Tools for Pricing Standing Corn Silage

Extension has developed online tools to help corn growers and dairy and livestock producers negotiate a fair price for corn silage. The tools encourage communication between buyers and sellers.

Pricing Standing Alfalfa

Pricing standing alfalfa requires an open conversation between buyer and seller, with both parties understanding the inherent value of the forage as well as the cost and risks of harvesting.