Feeders

GRP (fibreglass) feed bins are rigid, UV-stable and tend to be the choice for larger capacities, as the material holds its shape well under load without flexing. Polyethylene feeders are lighter, generally cheaper for smaller sizes, and just as weatherproof, but can be less rigid in very large formats. Both are rot-proof, non-corroding and suitable for long-term outdoor use.

Feed bins are sized by capacity, usually quoted in tonnes or cubic metres, so start by calculating your daily/weekly feed usage and how often you want deliveries to top up rather than run empty. Most farms size up rather than down, since running close to empty risks feed bridging in the cone and increases delivery frequency. Bear in mind bulk feed is lighter than it looks — a full bin's weight needs a base that can take it.

Yes — a level, compacted concrete or hardstanding base is essential, sized to the bin's footprint and rated for the full loaded weight, not just the empty bin. Most feeders bolt down to resist wind uplift when empty, so anchor points need to be cast into the base or fitted to ground anchors at installation. Uneven or soft ground will stress the bin structure and can jam the discharge cone.

Quality GRP and polyethylene feed bins are sealed units with close-fitting lids, so rodents and birds can't get in to contaminate or spoil stored feed. The smooth internal surfaces don't hold moisture, which helps prevent mould and caking, and UV-stabilised materials stop the bin degrading in sunlight over years of outdoor use. Discharge outlets should still be checked periodically, as damp feed can bridge and block the cone regardless of the tank material.

Most feeders are designed with a top fill point sized for blown or augered bulk feed delivery, so check the inlet diameter and height against your supplier's delivery vehicle before ordering. Access height matters too — make sure there's clearance for the delivery tanker's discharge pipe to reach the fill point. The discharge cone at the base should match your feeding system, whether that's a manual chute, auger run or gravity spout.

Large feed bins are bulky items delivered on flatbed or crane-offload vehicles, so you'll need a clear, firm access route and enough space for the delivery vehicle to manoeuvre and unload safely. Confirm ground conditions and any overhead obstructions (power lines, low branches) before delivery day, as repositioning a large bin on site afterwards is difficult. It's worth having the base fully cured and ready so the bin can be sited and secured on arrival rather than left standing.