A USDA-inspected processor can legally sell meat by the individual cut to the public, while a custom-exempt processor can only process an animal for its owner, whose meat is stamped "Not for Sale." That single distinction explains why farms sell you a "share" of a live cow instead of a box of steaks, and it affects where and how you can buy.
The three inspection categories
| Type | Who inspects | Can it be sold by the cut? | Where sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA (federal) inspected | USDA FSIS, continuous | Yes, to the public | Across state lines |
| State inspected | State program (equal to federal) | Yes, to the public | Within that state (usually) |
| Custom-exempt | Inspected facility; animal not carcass-by-carcass | No - owner only, "Not for Sale" | Owner's own use |
Why beef shares are sold as live animals
When you buy a quarter, half, or whole beef share, you are legally buying part of the live animal from the farmer. The animal then goes to a custom-exempt processor who cuts it for you, the owner. This is completely legal and standard, and it is the reason your invoice says "hanging weight" and your packages say "Not for Sale." It also means the farmer is not selling you inspected retail cuts, so the price structure is different from a store - and usually cheaper per pound. See how to buy a beef share.
Shipping and selling across state lines
If you want to buy individual cuts from a farm store, farmers market, or have meat shipped to you, that meat must be USDA or state inspected. State-inspected meat can generally only be sold within that state; federal USDA inspection is what allows interstate sale. So a farm shipping steaks nationwide is working with a USDA-inspected processor.
What this means when you choose a processor
- Buying a share for your own freezer? Custom-exempt is normal and fine.
- Want to buy retail cuts or have meat shipped? Look for USDA or state inspection.
- Reselling or crossing state lines? You need federal USDA inspection.
Ask any processor which category they operate under, and confirm your state’s rules, since they vary. For the on-farm harvest option, see what mobile slaughter is.
Find inspected and custom processors: Find verified shops, farms, and processors near you on the Butcher Bud directory.
Last verified: July 2026 by the Butcher Bud editorial team. Ranges are typical; confirm details, pricing, and rules with your local farm, butcher, or processor. Regulations vary by state.