In the United States, the cost of processing a deer usually falls between $75 and $180. However, keep in mind that this price doesn’t include premium cuts like jerky, hamburger, or sausages. Most of these specialty cuts will increase what you pay to around $320 for a full-sized deer.
However, what it costs to have a deer processed in the United States will indeed be influenced by numerous factors including the size of the deer, the type of cut you want, the location, as well as the processing company you choose to work with.
Factors That Determine the Cost of Processing a Deer
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Geographical Variations
You have to understand that how much you will be expected to pay will vary significantly from one region to another, with factors such as local demand, cost of living, as well as local competition among processors being the few things that will directly or indirectly have a cognizant impact.
This simply means that in rural areas, where hunting is more prevalent, processing costs might be quite lower, and this can be attributed to increased competition among local processors.
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Basic Processing Services
Most often, these services include very important processes like skinning, quartering, and basic butchering, and they form the very basis of the process.
However, note that the expenses that come with these basic services are the beginning phase for pricing, especially when you take into consideration the necessary labor and expertise needed to get the deer ready for consumption.
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Additional Processing Options
A good number of processors offer additional services that go beyond basic processing, and this ensures that hunters can decide to customize their orders.
These services and fees should be taken into consideration especially since they influence the overall cost of deer processing in the United States.
Keep in mind that these facilities will bill additional fees for services that include disposal of carcass remnants, accepting after-hours drop-offs, or expediting processing with rush services.
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Size of the Deer
Also, note that the size of the deer is a valid factor that will determine the cost of processing it. Keep in mind that bigger deer necessitate more labor and time for processing.
Processing facilities have tiered pricing based on the weight of the animal, and this proves the extra effort needed for handling and butchering bigger game.
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Trophy Mounts and Specialty Items
For hunters who would love to preserve their memorable experiences, the option of taxidermy, antler mounting, or other specialized services is offered by most processing facilities.
However, note that these additional services come with added expenses as skilled taxidermists and craftsmen will need to leverage their vast experience to create lasting mementos.
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Transportation Fees
Although this is not typically a direct factor in the pricing of deer processing services, you need to understand that they have an indirect influence on how much hunters spend to have their deer processed.
It is recommended that you take into account the distance and associated travel costs when picking your processing facility, especially since longer journeys would mean higher transportation costs.