How it works
Buying an animal, from first look to delivery
Buying an animal online is new to many people, and we have kept the process deliberately simple. What follows sets out each part in full: finding and buying an animal, paying and taking delivery, and, if you wish, having your animal processed for your own use.
The animals we sell
The Cattle Exchange sells live cattle, sheep, goats and pigs across South Africa, as single animals or as lots from which you may take a share. Every animal is examined before it is listed, and its breed, age, live weight, body condition and identification are recorded and shown alongside real photographs, so that you can judge an animal properly before you commit to it.
Two ways to buy
Most animals are available to buy immediately. You see the price, you pay, and the animal is yours. Where you need something that is not currently listed, you can place a request instead: you tell us what you are looking for, we source it for you, and we confirm a price for your approval before any payment is taken. Whichever route you take, you are never committed to a figure you have not seen and agreed.
Reserving and paying
When you are ready to buy, beginning checkout reserves the animal for you while you complete payment, so that it is not sold to someone else in the meantime. Payment is made to The Cattle Exchange through PayFast, and your card details are entered within PayFast’s own secure window, never touching our systems. Your order is confirmed the moment your payment succeeds, and your animal is held for you.
Collection and delivery
You may collect your animal from the point shown on the listing, or ask us to arrange delivery by livestock transport. Where you choose delivery, we quote the cost and confirm the timing with you before anything is charged, and we keep you informed as your order makes its way to you. Responsibility for the animal passes to you when it is handed over, whether on collection or on delivery.