"Many ranchers know the industry like the back of their well-worked hands; they still value doing business with a handshake, and they desire a fair return for their labor. But along with the knowledge and wisdom they bring to the cattle industry, as smart businessmen and women, many have turned to computers to help them maintain accurate records, track finances, obtain current market prices and research methods they can use to get the best return on their investments."
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- General »
» What is Midwestern Cattle Marketing?
Midwestern Cattle Marketing sells cattle through Video Auctions, eCowAuctions, and Private Treaty sales. MCM is headquartered in Sidney, Nebraksa. Each of MCM‘s owners has at least 20 years of experience working in the cattle industry and, as a team, they understand every aspect of cattle operations. Our entire staff is committed to providing personalized and professional service to each of our customers.
» What are the benefits of selling your cattle with MCM?
Video Auctions and eCowAuctions use the most accurate form of price discovery available–competitive bidding. With competitive bidding, producers receive the best possible price for their cattle, generated from a nationwide selection of interested buyers. Through our process, the cattle stay in their natural location until delivery is made. As a result, the cattle experience none of the typical "shrinkage" experienced in shipping to a sale barn. Cattle health is maintained, while selling costs are kept to a minimum. Our Field Representatives are always available to help producers through the process and answer any questions they may have. They are dedicated to helping your marketing event go as smoothly as possible.
» How do I find an MCM Field Representative in my area?
Visit the Meet Our Reps section of this web site, where you will find a list of Field Representatives, organized by state. Or, call Jason O'Connell at 308.249.5114, and we will be happy to help you locate a Field Representative.
» Should I sell my cattle via Video Auction or through Internet Auction?
It depends on what kind of cattle you want to sell. Video Auctions are best for selling stocker/feeder cattle, while using eCowAuctions, our Internet Auction website, is the best method for selling breeding stock.
- Buyers »
» How do I register?
You can register for both Video Auctions and eCowAuctions by completing the forms on this site. When you check the box that indicates you have read the Terms and Conditions, you will receive an e-mail confirmation that registration is complete.
» What is the difference between Video Auctions and Internet Auctions?
The format of a Video Auction is similar to that of a traditional auction in that it takes place over the course of one day in a fast-paced environment. Buyers have the option of being present at the auction or viewing it via Dish Network, Channel 219, or over the Internet. The eCowAuctions format is similar to other Internet Auctions, in which buyers can place bids over the course of several days.
» How is a Video Auction conducted?
The format of a Video Auction is similar to that of a traditional auction, except the cattle are not present at the event. Rather, videos of the cattle filmed in their natural environment are available for viewing live at the event, via Dish Network, Chanel 219, or via the Internet. Buyers view from nationwide locations and bid via telephone. MCM‘s Video Auctions are conducted by our partner, Western Video Market. Cattle for sale can be previewed in the sales catalog prior to each event.
» How are Internet Auctions conducted?
The format of eCowAuctions is similar to that of other Internet Auctions. Photos of the cattle are available for viewing over the course of several days. Buyers can place bids during that entire time from the convenience of their office or home, avoiding the expense of traveling to and from the sale barn.
» How do I watch a Video Auction?
Buyers view livestock via Dish Network, Channel 219, or live streaming video on the Internet..
» How do I participate in Internet Auctions?
Once you have registered to become a buyer, you may login to our Internet Auction web site, eCowAuctions, and view and bid on livestock at your convenience. Questions about how to use the site may be directed to Shawn Sexson at 308.650.1436. You may also view the cattle without registering as a buyer.
» How do I bid in a Video Auction?
You may bid on location at the auction, or by phone on the day of the sale. NOTE: The phone number is different for each auction, based on location, and is printed in the Western Video Market sales catalog. It is also advertised on the Western Video Market home page.
» How do I bid in an Internet Auction?
Use the www.eCowAuctions.com web site navigation to initiate the bidding process. Questions about how to use the site may be directed to Shawn Sexson at 308.650.1436.
» How do I pay in a Video Auction?
Forty dollars ($40.00) per head partial payment is due on the date of purchase. If you are bidding remotely, a sales/purchase contract will be faxed to you for signature; payment must be submitted within 24 hours. Upon shipment of the cattle, payment is expected as follows:
- If the buyer is present at delivery, full payment must be received at delivery.
- If the buyer is not present at delivery, full payment must be received no later than the following business day.
- Under no condition shall payment be made later than 24 hours after delivery of livestock.
- The buyer can wire funds or overnight them to MCM‘s bank.
» How do I pay in an Internet Auction?
Ten percent (10%) of the total purchase price is due on the date of purchase. Payment must be submitted within 24 hours. Upon shipment of the cattle, payment is expected as follows:
- If the buyer is present at delivery, full payment must be received at delivery.
- If the buyer is not present at delivery, full payment must be received no later than the following business day.
- Under no condition shall payment be made later than 24 hours after delivery of livestock.
- The buyer can wire funds or overnight them to MCM‘s bank.
- Producers »
» Why should I sell through MCM?
Video Auctions and eCowAuctions use the most accurate form of price discovery available–competitive bidding. With competitive bidding, producers receive the best possible price for their cattle, generated from a nationwide selection of interested buyers. Through our process, the cattle stay in their natural location until the delivery is made. As a result, the cattle experience none of the typical "shrinkage" experienced in shipping to a sale barn. Cattle health is maintained, while selling costs are decreased. Our Field Representatives are always available to help producers through the process and answer any questions. They are dedicated to helping your marketing event go as smoothly as possible.
» Who will represent me and my cattle?
MCM‘s Field Representatives understand cattle, as well as marketing, and are highly qualified to ensure you are well represented throughout the sales process. Before the sale, your Representative will come to your location to create high-quality videos (for Video Auctions) or photos (for eCowAuctions) of your cattle in their natural environment. They represent you at the auction, and oversee the delivery process. They are available at all times to answer your questions.
» How do I consign?
Once you contact MCM, a Field Representative will view the cattle in their natural surroundings and complete a consignment contract that describes the cattle and the Terms and Conditions of the sale. The Representative will also capture images with a video or digital camera that deliver a fair representation of the cattle. The consignment contract is forwarded to the Sidney, Nebraska office where the information is entered into a database, and a catalog is prepared. The Video Auction catalog can be viewed on the Internet one week prior to the auction.
» How does MCM screen buyers?
All buyers are required to register with Western Video Market (our partner company) prior to participating in Video Auctions or eCowAuctions. Qualified buyers are provided a buyer‘s number. Only buyers whose bank credit references are confirmed are eligible to receive a buyer‘s number.
» How is a Video Auction conducted?
The format of a Video Auction is similar to that of a traditional auction, except the cattle are not present at the event. Rather, videos of the cattle in their natural surroundings are available for viewing live at the event, via Dish Network, Channel 219, or via the Internet. Buyers view from nationwide locations and bid via telephone.
» How are Internet Auctions conducted?
The format of eCowAuctions is similar to that of other Internet Auctions. Photos of the cattle taken in their natural surroundings are available for viewing over the course of a few days. Buyers can place bids during that entire time. Questions about how to use the site may be directed to Shawn Sexson at 308.650.1436.
» How do I watch a Video Auction?
You can view livestock via Dish Network, Channel 219, or live streaming video on the Internet. Videos showing the cattle are available for viewing prior to the auction date.
- Field Representatives »
» Who do I contact to learn about becoming a Field Representative for MCM?
Visit the Field Representatives section of this site for information, or call Jason O'Connell at 308.249.5114.
» How will I be compensated?
Field Representatives are independent business owners who work on a production-driven (commission) basis, so they can earn as much as they want.
» Can I do this part-time?
Yes! The Field Representative position is great for people who already have relationships with ranchers and cattle producers, who want to supplement their income, or those who want to make a full-time career of it.
» Can I make my own hours?
Yes.