Hay price per ton varies based on quality, type, and export destination, with alfalfa and timothy hay leading global demand for livestock feed. The price of hay per ton can differ significantly depending on factors such as protein content, bale compression, seasonal supply, and shipping distance. On this page, you’ll find current bulk hay prices, including FOB and CIF export rates, along with insights into container shipping costs and international logistics. Whether you’re sourcing for dairy farms, feedlots, or large-scale distribution, understanding the price of hay per ton helps you compare suppliers and secure the best value. Use this guide to evaluate current hay prices per ton, explore market trends, and request quotes from reliable suppliers for consistent, long term supply.
Alfalfa Hay Price Per Ton
Alfalfa price per ton is typically higher than other hay types due to its high protein content, superior nutritional value, and strong global demand from dairy farms and livestock producers. The price of alfalfa hay per ton can vary widely depending on grade, leaf retention, moisture levels, and whether the hay is sold locally or prepared for export.
For bulk buyers and importers, premium (dairy-grade) alfalfa hay commands the highest prices, especially when double-compressed for efficient container shipping. Lower grades used for beef cattle or general feed are more affordable but still influenced by seasonal supply, weather conditions, and regional production.
Average Alfalfa Per Ton Price
- Low-grade alfalfa: $150 – $250 per ton
- Mid-grade alfalfa: $250 – $400 per ton
- Premium/dairy-grade alfalfa: $400 – $700+ per ton
- Export (compressed, FOB): $300 – $600+ per ton
- Export (CIF with shipping): $450 – $800+ per ton
Prices vary based on location, season, and contract volume.
What Affects Alfalfa Hay Prices?
Several key factors influence the price of alfalfa hay per ton:
- Quality & Grade: Higher protein (18–22%+) and leafy hay increases value
- Compression: Double-compressed bales reduce shipping costs per ton
- Moisture Content: Properly dried hay avoids mold and export rejection
- Seasonality: Prices rise during droughts or low harvest periods
- Export Demand: Strong demand from regions like the Middle East and Asia pushes prices up
- Freight Costs: Container rates significantly impact CIF pricing
Alfalfa Hay Export Pricing (Bulk Buyers)
For international buyers, the price of alfalfa hay per ton is usually quoted in:
- FOB (Free on Board): Price at the export port (buyer handles shipping)
- CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): Total delivered cost to destination port
Bulk orders (full container loads) often receive better pricing per ton, especially under long-term supply contracts.
How to Get the Best Alfalfa Price Per Ton
To secure competitive pricing:
- Buy in bulk (container quantities)
- Request quotes from multiple suppliers
- Choose double-compressed hay for export efficiency
- Lock in long-term contracts during peak supply seasons
Timothy Hay Price Per Ton
Timothy hay price per ton is generally lower than alfalfa but remains in high demand, especially for horse owners and export markets that require lower protein, high-fiber feed. The price of timothy hay per ton varies based on grade, color, softness, and whether the hay is intended for domestic use or international export.
Premium timothy hay often bright green, soft, and low in dust is typically exported to markets such as Asia and the Middle East, where quality standards are strict. Lower-grade timothy hay used for general livestock feed is more affordable but still influenced by seasonal supply, weather conditions, and transportation costs.
Average Timothy Hay Price Per Ton
- Low-grade timothy hay: $120 – $220 per ton
- Mid-grade timothy hay: $220 – $350 per ton
- Premium horse-grade timothy hay: $350 – $600+ per ton
- Export (compressed, FOB): $250 – $500+ per ton
- Export (CIF with shipping): $400 – $750+ per ton
Prices vary depending on quality, region, and bulk purchase volume.
What Affects Timothy Hay Prices?
The price of timothy hay per ton is influenced by several factors:
- Grade & Appearance: Bright green color, softness, and low dust increase value
- Cutting Stage: Early-cut timothy is softer and more desirable for horses
- Bale Compression: Double-compressed bales reduce shipping costs
- Moisture Levels: Proper drying prevents mold and maintains export quality
- Seasonality: Weather conditions and harvest yields impact supply
- Export Demand: Strong demand from horse markets drives premium pricing
Timothy Hay Export Pricing (Bulk Buyers)
For importers, the price of timothy hay per ton is typically quoted as:
- FOB (Free on Board): Cost at the export port
- CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): Total delivered cost including shipping
Bulk buyers ordering full container loads benefit from lower per-ton costs, especially when working with established suppliers offering consistent quality.
How to Get the Best Timothy Hay Price
To secure competitive pricing:
- Purchase bulk or container quantities
- Focus on export-grade, double-compressed hay
- Compare quotes from multiple suppliers
- Buy during peak harvest seasons for better rates
Timothy hay price per ton is driven by export demand, quality standards, and freight costs, making it essential for buyers to compare suppliers carefully. For horse feed and premium markets, investing in higher-grade timothy hay ensures better value and consistent supply.
Alfalfa Hay vs Timothy Hay Per Ton Prices
| Hay Type | Average Price per Ton (USD) | Low-End Price | High-End Price | Primary Use | Key Factors Affecting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alfalfa Hay | $180 – $350 | $150 | $400+ | Dairy cows, horses, high-protein feed | Protein content, leafiness, cutting (1st, 2nd, 3rd), export demand |
| Timothy Hay | $150 – $300 | $120 | $350+ | Horses, rabbits, export (Japan, Korea) | Softness, fiber quality, color, bale size, export grade |