“How much does a bale of hay weigh?” may seem like an innocent question to most. After all, how much variation could there be? Don’t most bales of hay come in around the same weight? While the answers might seem simple to most, there is more variation here than many would expect, and David Woods Hay Service is an expert!
What are the Different Types of Bales?
Knowing the difference between each type of bale is crucial. There are three types of bales to choose from and they all have vastly different weights. The more you know about small, large, and round bales of hay, the better your chances of finding the one that works best for your farm’s needs. This is especially important for those who are not dealing in smaller bales.
It can be hard to determine the weight of each bale because of all the unique factors that play into it. Density, size, and moisture level all have to be considered. However, in most instances, the weight of a small two-string bale will be anywhere from 40 to 60 pounds, while the weight of a small three-string square bale lands in the 100 to 120-pound range.
This can differ depending on whether it is grass or alfalfa hay. Two-string grass hay square bales are between 40 to 60 pounds, while alfalfa is between 60 to 75 pounds. For three-string square bales, the difference is even more pronounced. The grass hay bale weighs between 75 to 90 pounds and the alfalfa bale weighs between 110 and 140 pounds.
Round bales, on the other hand, are usually a fair amount heavier than the two and three-string square bales. These bales weigh between 600 to 1,200 pounds. As for the large square bales? These are the biggest of all, coming in at 1200 lbs. to 2,000 lbs. Of course, it can be hard to decide between the round and square bales. That’s where this helpful guide comes into play.
Round Bales vs Square Bales: What’s The Best Choice?
While most horse owners will typically choose square bales, this is not the choice that all are going to make. What is more important than the shape of the bale is the manner in which it is stored. Square bale or round bale does not matter if it is being stored in a manner that is going to make the horse sick.
The issue with round bales is a very simple one to understand. The horses consume square bales more quickly, which reduces the amount of time that they are exposed to the elements. Unless you have a lot of horses to feed, the round bales are not recommended.
In addition to the concerns, the square bales are a much better choice from a storage standpoint, since they do not take up the same amount of space. Round bales also require more expensive equipment when it comes time to handle them, while square bales do not.
It is easier for farmers to monitor their horses’ hay intake with square bales; they do not mold as rapidly, and they remain fresher for longer periods of time. Ranchers will want to make sure that they are choosing wisely, or they could be exposing their horses to contaminants.
If you would like to learn more about the hay selection process and you have any unanswered questions, the experts at David Woods Hay Service are more than happy to help out. Please be sure to pick up the phone and give us a call immediately! Our team of professionals can walk you through all of your current and potential concerns. Contact us today!