TMR Mixer Wagons: What 20 Years in Dairy Taught Me About Choosing the Right One

Table of Contents

• About the Author
• What Exactly Is a TMR Mixer Wagon?
• Why TMR Feeding Changed Everything
• How These Machines Actually Work
• Vertical vs Horizontal: The Real Differences
• Sizing Your Mixer (With a Simple Formula)
• Brand Comparison: My Honest Take
• What You’ll Actually Pay
• Buying Used: What to Look For
• Essential Parts and Maintenance
• Finding Dealers and Service
• Common Questions Answered
• Final Thoughts

About the Author

Mark Henderson has worked in dairy nutrition consulting for over two decades, helping farms across the Midwest optimize their feeding programs. He’s personally evaluated dozens of TMR mixer models and has seen firsthand what works and what doesn’t in real farm conditions. This guide reflects his hands-on experience combined with current industry research.

What Exactly Is a TMR Mixer Wagon?

A TMR mixer wagon, sometimes called a feed mixer wagon or cattle feed mixer, is basically a giant blender on wheels. It takes all your feed ingredients (hay, silage, grain, minerals, supplements) and combines them into one uniform mix that livestock can’t sort through.

The “TMR” stands for Total Mixed Ration. The idea is simple: every bite an animal takes should have the same nutritional profile. No picking out the tasty bits and leaving the rest.

I remember when a farmer in Iowa showed me his feed bunks before switching to TMR. His cows had basically created a buffet line, eating all the corn first, then maybe some of the hay, and leaving piles of minerals behind. His nutritionist’s carefully balanced ration? The cows had their own ideas.

That’s the problem TMR mixing solves.

Why TMR Feeding Changed Everything

Before TMR became standard, most operations used component feeding, offering different feeds separately or in layers. It worked, sort of. But research from institutions like Penn State and the University of Wisconsin started showing significant advantages to properly mixed rations.

According to data published by Penn State Extension, farms that switched to TMR feeding typically saw:

• 5 to 8 percent improvement in feed efficiency
• Reduced sorting behavior (cows can’t pick and choose)
• More consistent rumen pH levels
• Lower incidence of metabolic disorders like acidosis

A study from the W.H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute found that dairy cows fed a properly mixed TMR produced more consistent milk components compared to those on component-fed diets.

The Economic Impact of TMR Feeding

The economics work out too. Feed typically represents 50 to 60 percent of operating costs on a dairy. Even small improvements in efficiency add up fast. On a 200-cow dairy feeding $8 per head per day, a 5 percent improvement in feed efficiency saves roughly $29,000 annually.

That’s not theoretical. I’ve seen it happen on actual farms.

How These Machines Actually Work

The basic principle isn’t complicated, but the engineering matters more than most people realize.

The Mixing Cycle

Step 1: Loading ingredients in the right order

Most nutritionists recommend loading in this sequence:

1. Hay and dry forages first (they need the most processing)
2. Wet ingredients like silage
3. Grains and concentrates
4. Liquids (molasses, water)
5. Minerals and supplements last

The order matters because it affects how well ingredients break down and blend. Load everything at once and you’ll end up with pockets of unmixed material.

Step 2: Cutting and processing

Large augers fitted with hardened steel knives break down long-stem forages. This is where vertical and horizontal designs differ significantly (more on that below).

The goal is getting forage particles to the right length, generally 1.5 to 2 inches for dairy cattle. Too long and cows will sort. Too short and you’ve destroyed the effective fiber they need for proper rumen function.

Step 3: Blending

The auger system folds and tumbles the ingredients repeatedly. A well-designed mixer creates what engineers call a “figure-8” mixing pattern that brings material from the bottom to the top and back again.

Step 4: Discharge

Mixed feed exits through side or rear doors, usually into feed bunks or onto a feed lane. Most modern mixers let you control discharge rate so you can drive along the bunk at a steady pace.

What Makes a Good Mix?

Penn State developed a particle separator (basically a set of stacked screens) that’s become the industry standard for evaluating TMR consistency. A properly mixed ration should show:

Penn State Particle Separator Guidelines:

• Top screen (over 0.75 inches): 2 to 8 percent
• Middle screen (0.31 to 0.75 inches): 30 to 50 percent
• Bottom screen (0.16 to 0.31 inches): 10 to 20 percent
• Pan (under 0.16 inches): 30 to 40 percent

If you’re seeing more than 3 to 5 percent variation between samples taken from different spots in the bunk, something’s off with your mixing protocol.

Vertical vs Horizontal: The Real Differences

This is probably the question I get asked most often. And honestly, the answer is: it depends on your operation.

Vertical Auger Mixers

These use one, two, or three large screws that spin vertically inside a tub. Material gets lifted up by the auger flights and tumbles back down the center.

Where They Excel

The vertical design is genuinely better at processing dry hay. Those big augers with their mounted knives can take a bale of dry hay and break it down effectively. If you’re feeding significant amounts of dry forage (say, more than 15 to 20 percent of your ration), a vertical mixer usually makes more sense.

They’re also mechanically simpler. Fewer bearings, simpler drivetrains, less to go wrong. For smaller operations without a full-time mechanic on staff, that matters.

Where They Struggle

Vertical mixers take longer to achieve a consistent mix, typically 4 to 6 minutes after loading the last ingredient, compared to 3 to 4 minutes for many horizontal designs.

They can also over-process wet silages if you’re not careful. I’ve seen guys turn corn silage into mush because they let the mixer run too long. Once you’ve destroyed that fiber structure, you can’t get it back.

Best fit: Farms feeding 50 to 500 head, operations using significant dry hay, situations where simplicity and lower purchase cost matter.

Horizontal Mixers

Horizontal designs use augers, drums, or reels oriented on a horizontal axis. The mixing action is different (more of a tumbling motion than the lifting action of vertical augers).

Where They Excel

Speed. Horizontal mixers typically achieve a consistent blend faster, which matters when you’re mixing multiple batches daily.

They’re also generally gentler on pre-processed ingredients. If you’re buying commodity feeds that are already ground or using a lot of wet byproducts, a horizontal mixer won’t over-process them.

For very large operations (500+ head), the time savings per batch adds up. Mixing six batches a day instead of eight because each batch finishes faster? That’s real labor savings.

Where They Struggle

A horizontal mixer won’t process dry hay as effectively as a good vertical. If you throw a round bale of dry hay into a horizontal mixer, you might be disappointed with the results.

They’re also more mechanically complex and typically cost more upfront.

Best fit: Large commercial operations, farms using mostly pre-processed feeds or wet ingredients, situations where mixing speed is critical.

Reel Mixers (A Third Option)

Worth mentioning: reel-type mixers like those from Roto-Mix use a different approach (a horizontal reel that tumbles material gently). They’re excellent for operations that have already processed their forages elsewhere and just need to blend ingredients. Very fast, very gentle, but limited processing capability.

The Honest Comparison

Vertical vs Horizontal TMR Mixer Comparison:

I’ve worked with successful dairies using each type. The right choice depends on your specific feeds, scale, and management style, not on which brand’s salesman is more convincing.

Sizing Your Mixer (With a Simple Formula)

Getting the capacity right matters more than most other decisions. Too small and you’re running multiple batches when you shouldn’t have to. Too large and you’re either under-filling (which hurts mix quality) or wasting money on capacity you don’t use.

The Basic Calculation

Here’s a straightforward approach that’s worked for dozens of farms I’ve consulted with:

Required capacity (cubic feet) = (Head count × Daily TMR pounds) ÷ Mix density ÷ Batches per day

Where:

• Daily TMR: approximately 100 to 110 lbs for lactating cows, 50 to 65 lbs for dry cows/heifers
• Mix density: Usually 10 to 14 lbs per cubic foot (varies with moisture)
• Batches: How many times you want to mix daily

Example Calculation for 150 Dairy Cows

150 milking cows eating 105 lbs/day of TMR, mixing once daily:

• 150 × 105 = 15,750 lbs total
• 15,750 ÷ 12 (average density) = 1,312 cubic feet needed
• Add 15 to 20 percent buffer: approximately 1,500 to 1,575 cubic feet

That’s a big mixer. If you’d rather mix twice daily:

• 15,750 ÷ 2 = 7,875 lbs per batch
• 7,875 ÷ 12 = 656 cubic feet
• With buffer: approximately 750 to 800 cubic feet

Much more manageable, and many nutritionists prefer twice-daily mixing anyway for freshness.

General Sizing Guidelines

TMR Mixer Sizing by Herd Size:

What About Small Farms?

If you’re running under 50 head, you might wonder if a TMR mixer makes economic sense at all. The answer depends on your situation, but there are good options.

Several manufacturers offer compact mixers in the 200 to 350 cubic foot range specifically designed for smaller operations. Jaylor’s 5000 series, for instance, starts with models that work with 65 to 75 HP tractors (equipment many smaller farms already own).

A used TMR mixer wagon can also make sense. I’ve seen farmers pick up 10-year-old vertical mixers for $12,000 to $18,000 that still had plenty of life left. At that price point, the math works even for 40 to 50 head.

Brand Comparison: My Honest Take

I’m not affiliated with any manufacturer, so I’ll give you my genuine assessment based on years of seeing these machines in actual farm conditions.

Kuhn

Background: German-engineered equipment with a strong global presence. They acquired Knight Manufacturing years back and have continued developing both lines.

What I like: The build quality is genuinely excellent. The Euromix series mixers I’ve worked with have held up well even in demanding conditions. Their scale systems are accurate and reliable. Parts availability is good through their dealer network.

What I don’t: You’ll pay a premium, typically 15 to 25 percent more than comparable models from other brands. For some operations that’s worth it; for others, it’s not. Also, some farmers find the controls more complex than necessary.

Models to consider: Euromix I (single auger, 365 to 530 cu ft), Euromix II (twin auger, 670 to 1270 cu ft), Profile (horizontal, 1050 to 2150 cu ft)

Jaylor

Background: Canadian manufacturer that’s been around since 1991. Known for their distinctive square-cut auger design.

What I like: That square auger really does process hay differently (more of a tearing action than cutting). Works well with dry, stemmy forages. Good value for money. Their customer service has a solid reputation, and I’ve found their technical support genuinely helpful.

What I don’t: Dealer network is thinner in some regions, which can mean longer waits for parts or service. The square auger design isn’t for everyone; some farmers find the mix looks different than what they’re used to.

Models to consider: 5425 (twin auger, 425 cu ft), 5575 (twin auger, 575 cu ft), 5850 (triple auger, 850 cu ft)

Supreme International

Background: American manufacturer based in Texas, been making mixers since the 1980s. Wide range of configurations.

What I like: Lots of customization options. You can configure these pretty much any way you want (different discharge locations, conveyor options, various auger setups). Parts are readily available. They’ve been around long enough that there’s institutional knowledge in the dealer network.

What I don’t: Quality can vary depending on configuration and age. Some of the older models I’ve seen had durability issues that seem to be improved in newer versions. The sheer number of options can make buying decisions complicated.

Models to consider: 500T (twin auger, 500 cu ft), 700T (twin auger, 700 cu ft), 900T (triple auger, 900 cu ft)

Penta

Background: Italian manufacturer. TMR mixing is huge in European dairy, and Italian companies have been at it for decades.

What I like: Efficient designs that typically require less horsepower than American equivalents. Competitive pricing for the quality you get. Their twin-auger vertical designs are well-engineered.

What I don’t: Parts availability can be challenging outside major agricultural areas. Dealer network is thinner in North America compared to Europe. Some farmers have reported longer lead times for non-standard parts.

Models to consider: 5020 (twin auger, 530 cu ft), 6720 (twin auger, 720 cu ft), 8720 (triple auger, 920 cu ft)

Roto-Mix

Background: American company known for the “reel auggie” design (combines a reel mixer with auger elements).

What I like: Incredibly fast mixing cycles; some operations report 2 to 3 minute mix times. Very gentle on ingredients that don’t need processing. Their truck-mount units are popular with larger operations and custom feeders.

What I don’t: Limited ability to process long hay. If you need serious forage processing, this isn’t your machine. It’s best suited as part of a system where processing happens elsewhere.

Models to consider: 354-14 (350 cu ft), 620-16 (620 cu ft), 1054-20 (1054 cu ft)

Other Brands Worth Knowing

• NDEco: Vertical mixers with a good reputation in the western U.S.
• Trioliet: Dutch manufacturer with some interesting features, limited North American presence
• Siloking: Austrian brand, premium pricing, excellent engineering
• Claasen: Smaller manufacturer with loyal following

My General Advice on Choosing a TMR Mixer Brand

Don’t buy based on brand alone. Find out:

1. Who’s the dealer in your area?
2. How far are they? Will they come for service calls?
3. What’s their parts inventory like?
4. Can you talk to other farmers they’ve sold to?

A great machine with poor dealer support is worse than a good machine with excellent dealer support.

What You’ll Actually Pay

Pricing for TMR mixer wagons varies significantly based on size, features, and brand. Here’s what the market looks like in 2025 to 2026.

New Equipment Pricing

2026 TMR Mixer Pricing Guide:

Note: Prices based on 2025 to 2026 dealer quotes and market listings. Actual prices vary by region, dealer, and configuration.

What Drives the Price?

Scale system quality: A basic mechanical scale might add $3,000 to $5,000 to the base price. A full electronic system with wireless data transfer, ration memory, and herd management software integration can add $10,000 to $20,000.

If you’re not using the data, you don’t need the expensive system. But if you’re tracking ration costs and feed efficiency seriously, the better system pays for itself.

Discharge options: Standard side discharge is usually included. Cross-conveyors for elevated bunks or specialized feeding situations add $6,000 to $18,000 depending on length and complexity.

Construction upgrades: Stainless steel tubs (for acidic feeds like citrus pulp), heavy-duty axles, upgraded hydraulics; each adds cost but may be worthwhile depending on your situation.

Brand premium: Yes, it’s real. Kuhn and some other premium brands command higher prices. Whether that’s justified depends on your perspective on build quality, resale value, and dealer support.

Understanding Total Cost of Ownership

The purchase price is just the beginning. Annual operating costs typically include:

Annual Operating Costs for TMR Mixers:

A $75,000 mixer might cost $4,000 to $8,000 annually to operate beyond fuel. Budget accordingly.

Buying Used: What to Look For

The used TMR mixer wagon market offers real savings, typically 40 to 60 percent off new prices. But there are risks.

Where to Find Used Mixers

Online marketplaces: TractorHouse, Machinery Pete, and Facebook Marketplace have the largest selection. Expect to sort through a lot of listings to find good candidates.

Dealer trade-ins: Often the safest option. Good dealers inspect trade-ins and can tell you what they’ve found. Some offer limited warranties on used equipment.

Farm auctions: Best prices but highest risk. You’re buying as-is with limited inspection time. Know what you’re looking at before you bid.

Direct from farmers: Can be good deals if you can verify the history. Ask why they’re selling. Upgrading is a better answer than “it keeps breaking down.”

The Inspection Checklist

I’ve developed this list over years of evaluating used equipment. Don’t skip steps.

Tub/Mixing Chamber

• Measure wall thickness at wear points (bottom, around augers)
• Look for visible wear patterns (shiny spots indicate high-wear areas)
• Check for cracks, especially at corners and seams
• Minimum acceptable thickness: 4mm for light use, 5 to 6mm for commercial

Auger Assembly

• Check auger flights for wear (should have defined, sharp edges)
• Look for bent or damaged auger tubes (nearly impossible to fix economically)
• Spin augers by hand (should move freely without grinding)
• Check auger bearing play (excessive movement means replacement soon)

Knives

• Inspect current knife condition (easy replacement or signs of neglect?)
• Check knife mounting points for cracks or excessive wear
• Ask about replacement history (no records is a yellow flag)

Gearbox

• Check oil level and condition (milky = water contamination)
• Listen during operation for unusual noise
• Look for leaks at seals
• Ask for maintenance records if available

Scale System

• Test with known weights (bring something you can verify)
• Check all load cells for physical damage
• Verify display functions work
• Test calibration consistency across multiple measurements

Frame and Running Gear

• Inspect for cracks, especially at stress points
• Check axle condition and wheel bearings
• Verify tire condition and age
• Test all lights and brakes

Red Flags That Should Stop the Deal

Severe tub wear: If you can see obvious thin spots or the seller is vague about wall thickness, walk away. A tub replacement costs almost as much as a new mixer.

Gearbox noise: Grinding, whining, or knocking during operation means expensive problems. Gearbox replacement runs $4,000 to $12,000 depending on the model.

Bent augers: These can’t be economically repaired. If the auger is visibly bent or wobbles during rotation, it’s not worth buying.

Missing maintenance records: Not automatically disqualifying, but combined with other concerns, it suggests deferred maintenance.

“It just needs…”: If the seller knows what’s wrong and hasn’t fixed it, there’s usually a reason.

Reasonable Age and Hour Limits

As a general guide:

Used TMR Mixer Age Guidelines:

Older equipment can still be good value if it’s been maintained well. But beyond these limits, you’re buying someone else’s deferred maintenance.

Essential Parts and Maintenance

Keeping a TMR mixer running well isn’t complicated, but it does require attention. Here’s what you need to know about TMR mixer parts and maintenance schedules.

Parts You’ll Replace Regularly

Mixer Knives (Most Common Wear Item)

Knives do the actual cutting work and wear down over time. Replacement frequency depends on:

• Feed abrasiveness (sand contamination accelerates wear significantly)
• Daily usage intensity
• Knife material quality

Expect to replace knives every 6 to 18 months under normal use. A full set typically costs $300 to $1,500 depending on the mixer model and knife count.

Signs you need new knives:

• Mixing time has increased noticeably
• Forage particle size is inconsistent
• Power draw has increased without other explanation
• Visual inspection shows rounded or damaged edges

Auger Flights

These wear more slowly than knives but do eventually need attention. On most mixers, flights are replaceable sections rather than requiring full auger replacement.

Budget for flight replacement every 3 to 5 years on commercial-use mixers.

Bearings and Seals

Auger bearings, gearbox seals, and wheel bearings all have finite lifespans. Quality preventive maintenance extends life significantly.

Scale Components

Load cells can be damaged by impact or moisture intrusion. Junction boxes and cables also wear over time.

Maintenance Schedules

Daily (10 minutes, non-negotiable)

• Visual knife inspection
• Check hydraulic fluid level
• Verify scale reads zero when empty
• Look for loose bolts or obvious damage
• Clean discharge door seals

Weekly (30 to 45 minutes)

• Grease all fittings per manufacturer spec
• Check tire pressure
• Inspect auger flights for wear
• Clean scale load cells
• Check PTO shaft condition

Monthly

• Test scale accuracy with known weight
• Inspect mixer tub for wear patterns
• Check gearbox oil level
• Verify all safety switches function
• Tighten any loose hardware

Annually

• Change gearbox oil (or per hour meter, typically 500 to 1000 hours)
• Professional scale calibration
• Comprehensive inspection of all wear components
• Bearing inspection and replacement as needed

Finding Parts

For common brands (Kuhn, Jaylor, Supreme, etc.), parts are generally available through:

• Authorized dealers (most reliable, sometimes pricier)
• Online parts suppliers (competitive pricing, verify compatibility)
• Aftermarket manufacturers (knives especially, variable quality)

For older or less common equipment, parts sourcing can be challenging. Before buying any used mixer, verify that parts are actually available.

Finding Dealers and Service

The importance of good dealer support can’t be overstated. A great mixer with poor service backup is worse than a good mixer with excellent support.

What to Look for in a Dealer

Proximity matters: How far will they travel for service calls? What’s the typical response time? During harvest and peak feeding season, can they get to you within 24 hours for urgent issues?

Parts inventory: Do they stock common wear items locally, or does everything ship from a central warehouse? A week waiting for knives during a breakdown is a week of compromised feeding.

Technical knowledge: Can they actually troubleshoot problems, or do they just swap parts until something works? Good technicians save money over time.

Reputation: Talk to other farmers who’ve bought from them. How was the buying experience? More importantly, how was the service after the sale?

Questions to Ask Dealers

Before committing to a brand/dealer:

1. “How many mixers of this model have you sold in this area?”
2. “Can you give me contact info for three customers using similar equipment?”
3. “What’s your typical response time for service calls?”
4. “What parts do you stock locally?”
5. “What does your warranty actually cover, and what doesn’t it?”
6. “If I need service during planting or harvest, what’s realistic?”

Regional Dealer Networks

Most major manufacturers have dealer locators on their websites:

• Kuhn: Strong network across North America, particularly good in dairy regions
• Jaylor: Better coverage in Canada and northern U.S., thinner in some southern regions
• Supreme: Solid coverage across the U.S., particularly in beef cattle regions
• Penta: More limited North American presence, strongest in California and upper Midwest

For any brand, verify local support before buying.

Common Questions Answered

What size TMR mixer do I need for 100 cows?

For 100 lactating dairy cows, figure roughly 10,000 to 11,000 lbs of TMR daily. At typical mix density, that’s about 750 to 900 cubic feet if mixing once daily, or 400 to 500 cubic feet if mixing twice.

A 500 to 650 cubic foot twin-auger vertical mixer handles this well with twice-daily mixing. You’ll need around 125 to 150 HP to run it efficiently.

How long should I mix TMR?

The research from University of Wisconsin suggests 4 to 6 minutes after adding the last ingredient provides optimal results for most rations. Over-mixing (beyond 8 to 10 minutes total) breaks down fiber excessively and can hurt rumen health.

But here’s the practical reality: optimal mix time depends on your specific ingredients, their moisture levels, and your mixer design. Use the Penn State Particle Separator to check your results and adjust accordingly.

Is a vertical or horizontal mixer better?

Neither is universally “better.” Vertical mixers process dry hay more effectively and cost less. Horizontal mixers handle wet feeds better and mix faster. Your feed ingredients should drive the decision more than marketing claims.

Most farms feeding 50 to 300 head with a mix of dry hay and silage do well with vertical mixers. Large commercial dairies using mostly silage and commodity feeds often prefer horizontal designs.

What does a TMR mixer cost?

New equipment ranges from about $28,000 for a small single-auger vertical to over $200,000 for a large commercial horizontal. The sweet spot for mid-size dairy operations (a twin-auger vertical in the 500 to 650 cubic foot range) typically runs $55,000 to $95,000 new.

Used equipment in good condition sells for 40 to 60 percent of new prices.

How often do TMR mixer knives need replacement?

Under typical use, every 6 to 18 months. High-abrasion feeds (sand-contaminated silage, certain byproducts) accelerate wear. Budget $500 to $2,000 annually for knife replacement.

The key is watching for signs of wear rather than following a fixed schedule: increased mixing time, inconsistent particle size, or visible rounding of knife edges all indicate replacement time.

Can I use a TMR mixer for sheep or goats?

Yes. The mixing principles are the same; you’re just creating a smaller particle size and different ration formulation. Some farms use TMR mixers for multiple species, adjusting rations as needed.

What’s the difference between a feed mixer and a TMR mixer?

A general feed mixer might just blend ingredients. A TMR mixer specifically processes forages (cutting them to appropriate length) while blending. TMR mixers also typically include integrated weighing systems for precise ration formulation.

If you’re feeding a complete ration to ruminants, you want a TMR mixer, not just a general feed blender.

Self-loading vs. conventional: which is better?

Self-loading mixers eliminate the need for a separate loader tractor, saving labor and equipment costs. But they add $35,000 to $90,000 to the purchase price and create more mechanical complexity.

For operations mixing twice daily or more with limited labor, self-loading often makes sense. For once-daily mixing with available labor, a conventional mixer plus loader is usually more economical.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a TMR mixer wagon is one of the more significant equipment decisions you’ll make for a livestock operation. Get it right, and you’ve got a machine that improves feed efficiency, reduces labor, and pays for itself within a few years. Get it wrong, and you’re stuck with an expensive headache that doesn’t fit your needs.

After two decades of working with farms on feeding programs, here’s what I’ve learned matters most:

The Decisions That Actually Matter

1. Match the mixer to your feeds, not the other way around

If you’re feeding a lot of dry hay, get a vertical mixer that can process it properly. If you’re running mostly wet silages and byproducts, a horizontal design might serve you better. Don’t let a salesman talk you into equipment that doesn’t fit your actual feeding program.

2. Size slightly larger than your current needs

Herds grow. Rations change. A mixer that’s perfect for your current 120 cows might be undersized when you’re at 150 in three years. The cost difference between a 500 and 600 cubic foot mixer is modest compared to the hassle of replacing undersized equipment.

3. Prioritize dealer support over brand prestige

I’ve seen farmers buy premium-brand equipment and then struggle because the nearest dealer is 200 miles away. A good local dealer who stocks parts and provides responsive service is worth more than a fancy nameplate.

4. Don’t overlook used equipment

A well-maintained 8-year-old mixer from a reputable brand can deliver excellent value. The key is knowing what to inspect and being willing to walk away from problem machines. The savings can be substantial, often enough to fund several years of maintenance and eventual knife replacements.

5. Think about total cost, not just purchase price

A cheaper mixer that needs constant repairs or burns through knives every four months isn’t actually cheaper. Factor in maintenance costs, parts availability, fuel efficiency, and expected lifespan when comparing options.

What I’d Do With Different Budgets

Budget under $30,000:

Look for a quality used single or twin-auger vertical mixer in the 400 to 500 cubic foot range. Brands like Jaylor, Supreme, or older Kuhn models offer good value in the secondary market. Inspect carefully, verify parts availability, and budget for immediate knife replacement and a thorough service.

Budget $50,000 to $80,000:

This is the sweet spot for new equipment for mid-size operations. A new twin-auger vertical from Jaylor, Supreme, or Penta, or a well-equipped used Kuhn or larger Jaylor. At this price point, you should expect a good electronic scale system, quality construction, and reasonable dealer support.

Budget $100,000+:

New premium equipment from Kuhn, larger Jaylor or Supreme models, or horizontal mixers for high-volume operations. At this level, you’re buying longevity, precision, and often better resale value. Make sure the features justify the premium. Don’t pay for capabilities you won’t use.

A Note on Changing Technology

The TMR mixer market is evolving. We’re seeing more integration with herd management software, GPS-based feeding systems, and automated mixing protocols. Some newer models can adjust rations on the fly based on which pen you’re feeding.

Whether you need these features depends on your operation’s sophistication and goals. For many farms, a straightforward mixer with an accurate scale is plenty. For larger operations tracking feed costs and efficiency closely, the data integration can be valuable.

Don’t buy technology for technology’s sake. Buy what helps you feed animals better and manage your operation more efficiently.

Additional Resources

Industry Organizations and Research

• Penn State Extension: Excellent resources on TMR mixing and particle size evaluation
• University of Wisconsin Dairy Management: Research-based feeding recommendations
• W.H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute: Practical dairy research including feeding studies

Where to Research Equipment

• TractorHouse.com: Largest selection of new and used agricultural equipment listings
• Machinery Pete: Auction results and market values for used equipment
• Manufacturer websites: Specifications, dealer locators, and technical resources

Suggested Reading

• TMR and Feeding Management (Penn State Extension publication)
• Particle Size and Effective Fiber (University of Wisconsin fact sheet)
• Your mixer manufacturer’s operator manual (seriously, most people don’t read these thoroughly)

Share Your Experience

Have questions about a specific mixer model or feeding situation? Found this guide helpful, or think I got something wrong? I’d like to hear from you.

Drop a comment below or reach out directly. I can’t promise to answer every question personally, but I do read them all, and common questions often become updates to guides like this one.

This guide was last updated January 2026. Equipment specifications, pricing, and availability change over time. Always verify current information with dealers and manufacturers before making purchasing decisions.

Disclosure: This guide was written independently and is not sponsored by any equipment manufacturer. Brand assessments reflect the author’s professional experience and publicly available information.

Quick Reference: TMR Mixer Comparison Table

Complete TMR Mixer Brand Comparison:

TMR Mixer Sizing Quick Calculator

Step 1: Count your animals by category

Daily TMR Consumption by Animal Type:

Step 2: Calculate required capacity

Total daily lbs ÷ mixes per day = lbs per batch

Lbs per batch ÷ 12 (avg density) = cubic feet needed

Cubic feet × 1.15 (buffer) = recommended capacity

Step 3: Match to available equipment

Use the sizing table earlier in this guide to identify appropriate models.

Thank you for reading. Here’s to better feeding, healthier animals, and equipment that works as hard as you do.