By Blake Jackson
The University of Missouri Extension has released an updated edition of its “Custom Rates for Farm Services in Missouri” guide, offering the latest estimates for charges and payments associated with common custom farming operations across the state.
The revision is based on a statewide survey conducted from fall 2025 through winter 2026, according to MU Extension senior research analyst Drew Kientzy.
Farmers, agribusinesses and land improvement contractors were invited to share the rates they charged or paid in 2025 for various custom services, excluding input costs such as seed, fertilizer and chemicals. In total, 953 responses were collected across all service categories.
The guide presents both average and median rates, along with response ranges and the number of reports for each activity. This data helps illustrate how rates can vary and provides insight into their overall reliability across Missouri, Kientzy explained.
Covered services include full-service farming, tillage, planting, nutrient and chemical application, harvesting, hauling, hay production and earthmoving.
Kientzy emphasized that the figures should be used as reference points, not fixed pricing. Producers and custom operators are encouraged to evaluate their own expenses and clearly discuss job expectations before finalizing agreements, he said.
“Custom Rates for Farm Services in Missouri” is available for free download.
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Categories: Missouri, Crops