Farmers are always looking for ways to cut costs. One way to do this is by using net wrap instead of traditional hay bales. Net wrap is a product that helps farmers save money by wrapping their hay in plastic netting. This netting protects the hay from weather damage and keeps it together when transporting it to different locations.
When considering the cost of a netting wrap, it is essential to remember that it is a one-time investment. The netting will last for many years so that the savings will offset the initial cost over time. There are also different types of netting wrap available so that farmers can choose the best option for their needs. Let’s look at the different types of net wrap and how much they cost.
Standard Net Wrap
The standard netting wrap is the most common type of net wrap used by farmers. It is made from polypropylene material and typically costs between $0.30 and $0.40 per square foot. The length of the standard netting wrap is usually between 1,500 and 2,000 feet.
Heavy Duty Net Wrap
Heavy-duty net wrap is made from a heavier polypropylene material designed to withstand more wear and tear. One roll of heavy-duty netting wrap typically costs between $0.50 and $0.60 per square foot. The price may also be higher if the bale coverage is less than 1,000 feet.
Jumbo Net Wrap
When you need to cover a lot of hay, jumbo netting wrap is the way to go. This type of net wrap is made from an extra-heavy polypropylene material that can cover up to 4,000 square feet of hay per roll. The jumbo netting wrap typically costs between $0.75 and $1.00 per square foot. The per bale coverage is usually between 2,000 and 3,000 feet.
Now that you know the different types of netting wraps and their associated costs, you can decide which option is best for your needs.
Factors That Affect The Cost Of Net Wrap
There are a few factors that can affect the cost of netting wrap. The price may also be affected by the supplier you use and any discounts or promotions. Some factors include:
The Type of Netting Wrap You Choose
Each type of netted wrap has a different price. The standard netting wrap rolls are typically the cheapest, while the jumbo netting wrap rolls are the most expensive. The type of netting wrap you choose will affect the cost.
The Size of Net Wrap You Need
If you need a lot of net wraps, you will have to purchase a larger roll. The price per square foot is usually lower when buying larger bales per roll. However, if you only need a small amount of netting wrap, you can purchase a smaller roll and save money. The baler you use will also affect the size of the netting wrap you need. The edge of the netting wrap or twine baling should extend past the edge of the bale by at least six inches.
The Supplier You Use
The supplier you use can also affect the cost of netting wrap. Some suppliers offer discounts or promotions on bales that can save you money. Be sure to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase. Average baling rates are between $50 and $70 per hour.
Additional Costs
In addition to the cost of a netting wrap, you will also need to factor in the cost of shipping and handling. Most suppliers charge a flat rate for shipping and handling, so ask about this before purchasing. You may also be charged a Hazmat fee if the netting wrap is considered a hazardous material.
The Roll Length
The roll length has minimal effect on the overall cost of netting wrap. However, if you need a lot of net wraps, you may want to purchase a longer roll to cover more bales with a single roll. You will also have to replace it less often with a longer roll. Straw bailing typically requires between 1,000 and 2,000 feet of netting wrap per bale.
The Weight of the Net Wrap
The cost of the netting wrap is also affected by its weight. However, if you require a lot of net wraps, you may wish to obtain a thicker roll to cover more bales with one pass. You will also have to replace it with a heavier roll less often. The balers you use will also affect the size of the netting wrap you need. The edge of the netting wrap should extend past the edge of the bale by at least six inches.
The Diameter of Net Wrap
When choosing the netting wrap, you will also need to decide on the diameter. The most standard diameters are 12 inches, 18 inches, and 24 inches. The larger the diameter, the more expensive the net wrap will be.
The Quality of Net Wrap
The quality stuff of net wrap bales can also affect the price. If you require a higher-quality net wrap, you will have to pay more. However, if you only need a low-quality netting wrap, you can save money by purchasing a cheaper roll. It is essential to factor in the quality of the net wrap when making your decision.
The Thickness of Net Wrap
The thickness of net wrap also plays a role in its overall cost. The thicker the netting wrap, the more expensive it will be. However, if you require a lot of net wraps, you may wish to obtain a broader roll to cover more bales with one pass. You will also have to replace it less often with a broader roll.
Transportation Cost
If you need to transport the netting wrap, you will also have to factor in the cost of transportation. The price of fuel and the distance you need to travel can affect the cost of transporting the net wrap. It is usually cheaper to purchase netting wrap from a supplier near you.
The Per Bale Coverage
The per bale coverage is the amount of netting wrap that will cover one bale. This number is usually between 1,000 and 4,000 square feet. The higher the per bale coverage, the more expensive the net wrap. However, if you need a lot of netting wrap, you may want to purchase a roll with a higher per bale coverage to cover more bales with one roll.
Discounts And Promotions
Many suppliers offer discounts and promotions on the netting wrap. These discounts can save you money on your purchase. Be sure to check with your supplier to see if they have any current deals or promotions.
The Bottom Line
The cost of netting wrap varies depending on the type, size, and supplier you choose. Be sure to factor in all of the costs before making your purchase. You can find the best deal on a net wrap with some research to save you money.
