How to Choose the Right Sheep Handler for Your Flock Size

Choosing the Right Sheep Handler for Your Flock Size

Choosing the right sheep handler is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when upgrading your sheep handling equipment. A good handler reduces labour, improves safety, speeds up routine tasks and supports better flock management. But with so many options available – from manual handlers to automatic systems and integrated weighing setups – it can be difficult to know which one is right for your flock size and workload.

This guide breaks down the key considerations to help you choose the best handler for your farm.

Why Your Sheep Handler Matters

A sheep handler is the heart of your sheep handling system. It affects:

Throughput
Labour requirements
Animal welfare
Operator safety
Accuracy of dosing and inspection
Long‑term flock performance

Choosing the right one ensures your Sheep Yards – Flock Management system works smoothly and efficiently.

1. Start With Your Flock Size

Small Flocks (Up to 150 sheep)

You need a handler that is:

Affordable
Compact
Easy to move
Simple to operate

A basic manual handler or tipping unit is usually enough. You don’t need automation – you need practicality.

Medium Flocks (150–500 sheep)

You need:

A robust, reliable handler
Good restraint for dosing and dagging
Optional weighing integration
Compatibility with Sheep Races and Sheep Hurdles

A mid‑range handler with optional loadbars is ideal.

Large Flocks (500–1,500 sheep)

You need:

High throughput
Strong, durable construction
One‑person operation
Integration with Weighing and EID Systems
Smooth flow through your sheep handling system

A premium handler like the Clipex Sheep Handler is ideal.

Very Large Flocks (1,500+ sheep)

You need:

Automation
Pneumatic or powered operation
Full EID integration
Compatibility with auto drafting
Heavy‑duty build quality

This is where a handler + auto drafter combination becomes essential.

2. Consider the Type of Work You Do Most

Dosing & Vaccinating

You need a handler with:

Strong side access
Good head control
Smooth entry and exit

Dagging & Crutching

You need:

A tipping or rollover function
Secure restraint
Good operator access

Weighing

You need:

Loadbar compatibility
EID Reader integration
Stable, accurate platform

Foot Checks

You need:

Safe tipping
Good leg access
Non‑slip flooring

High‑Volume Drafting

You need:

A handler that integrates with an auto-drafter
Fast reset times
Smooth sheep flow

3. Labour Availability

One‑Person Operation

If you often work alone, choose a handler with:

Automatic entry gates
Easy reset
Smooth flow
Minimal physical effort

Two‑Person Teams

You can use a simpler handler, but efficiency still matters.

Seasonal Labour

If you rely on temporary help, choose a handler that is:

Intuitive
Safe
Easy to learn

4. Yard Layout & Mobility

Permanent Yards

Choose a heavy‑duty handler that integrates with:

Sheep Yard Components
Sheep Races
Forcing pens
Drafting lanes

Mobile Setups

Choose a handler that is:

Lightweight
Easy to tow or move
Quick to set up

5. Integration With Weighing & EID Systems

Modern flock management relies on data. If you want to future‑proof your system, choose a handler that integrates with:

This allows you to track:

Growth rates
Condition scores
Medicine use
Breeding performance
Sale readiness

6. Build Quality & Durability

Look for:

Galvanised steel
Strong welds
Smooth edges
Quiet operation
Non‑slip flooring
Reliable locking mechanisms

A handler should last 10–20 years, not 2–3.

7. Budget & Long‑Term Value

A handler is an investment. Consider:

Labour savings
Reduced injuries
Faster throughput
Improved accuracy
Better welfare
Grant eligibility

Many handlers qualify for:

FETF Grant (England)
Small Grants Efficiency (Wales)
FBIS (Northern Ireland)
PSF (Scotland)

Choosing the right sheep handler depends on flock size, workload, labour availability and long‑term flock management goals. Small flocks need simplicity. Medium flocks need versatility. Large flocks need throughput and integration. Very large flocks need automation.

A well‑chosen handler becomes the backbone of your sheep handling system — saving time, reducing labour and improving welfare for years to come.