Understanding Custom Rates and Market Factors with Glennis McClure
In this episode, Glennis McClure, extension educator and farm and ranch management analyst with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, discusses the 2026 Nebraska Agricultural Custom Rates Report and how producers and custom operators can use it as a guide for pricing custom work.
The report includes survey data from 108 Nebraska respondents covering 123 custom operations and services, with statewide averages and regional rates by Nebraska Agricultural Statistics District. McClure explains why rates can vary across the state, how fuel prices and local market conditions affect custom charges, and why operators should consider their own ownership, operating and overhead costs before setting a rate.
The conversation also highlights how the Agricultural Budget Calculator can help producers estimate machinery costs, labor, repairs, depreciation and profit margins when evaluating what to charge or pay for custom agricultural services.
Article and Custom Rates: https://cap.unl.edu/news/2026-nebraska-custom-rates-report-published/
