7 Best Grain Conveyors For Small Scale Operations

Moving grain from a trailer to a bin by hand is a classic lesson in the exhaustion that defines early-stage farming. Investing in the right conveyor system transforms a back-breaking afternoon into a manageable chore completed in mere minutes. Selecting equipment that fits a smaller footprint requires balancing efficiency, mobility, and the specific physical constraints of a farmstead.

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Westfield WRX 6-31: Best Truck Unloading Auger

When the goal is simplicity and speed for unloading small-to-mid-sized trucks, the Westfield WRX 6-31 stands out as an industry workhorse. This 6-inch diameter auger offers enough capacity to keep pace with a gravity wagon without overtaxing a small tractor’s hydraulic or PTO system. It is specifically designed for the lower-profile requirements of smaller trailers, making it a dream for those who don’t want to struggle with oversized equipment in cramped yards.

The durability of this unit is where the investment pays off. It features a robust intake design that minimizes plugging, a common frustration with cheaper, off-brand augers. Because parts are widely available and the design is straightforward, it remains a smart choice for farmers who prefer doing their own maintenance rather than waiting on specialized service calls.

If the operation relies on a standard dump truck or a small gravity wagon, this auger is the correct starting point. It provides professional-grade results without requiring the footprint of commercial-scale machinery. For those seeking reliability and high resale value, this model is the definitive choice.

Sudenga 8-Inch Portable Auger: Top Mobile Choice

Mobility is often the deciding factor on a diverse farm where equipment must travel between different buildings or temporary storage spots. The Sudenga 8-inch portable auger excels here, offering a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver frame that doesn’t compromise on throughput. It is perfectly suited for those who need to jump from a grain truck to a seed tender without constant adjustments.

The build quality on these units is exceptionally high, particularly regarding the flighting—the spiral blade inside the tube that actually moves the grain. Sudenga uses precision engineering that reduces grain damage during transport, which is essential if the intent is to save seed for the next season. The balanced frame means a single person can often position it correctly without needing a loader tractor.

This is the right tool for the farmer who values efficiency and portability above all else. It is an investment in time-saving that prevents the bottlenecks common with fixed equipment. If the farm layout is spread out or relies on multi-purpose storage, this is the most logical choice.

Batco 1335 Field Loader: Best for Gentle Seed Handling

When handling high-value seeds like soybeans or specialty crops, traditional augers can cause enough mechanical damage to hurt germination rates. The Batco 1335 Field Loader uses a high-capacity belt conveyor instead of a steel screw, ensuring that the crop is carried rather than ground against the tube. This gentle approach is essential for maintaining the integrity of delicate commodities.

The 13-inch belt design is compact enough for field use but robust enough to move significant volumes quickly. Because it operates at lower speeds with less friction than an auger, it is also much quieter and generates significantly less dust. These factors make it an excellent choice for work done in residential proximity or inside enclosed barns.

While the price point is higher than an auger of similar size, the reduction in seed loss justifies the cost over time. Farmers focusing on high-quality outputs or sensitive specialty grains should view this as a primary asset. For those who prioritize crop quality above all else, the Batco 1335 is the superior option.

T&S Trip-Hopper Auger: Best for Filling Feed Bins

Managing livestock feed requires a different workflow than harvesting grain for market. The T&S Trip-Hopper auger is specifically engineered to mount to a truck or trailer and move bulk feed directly into overhead bins or gravity feeders. Its unique hopper design allows for a steady flow even with variable density feeds, like supplements or custom grain mixes.

This unit excels in situations where feed must be moved into tight or vertical spaces. The discharge end is highly adjustable, allowing for precise placement without spillage. It removes the need for manual scooping or dumping, which is a major benefit when handling hundreds of pounds of feed during inclement weather.

This is not a general-purpose harvest tool, but it is indispensable for the animal-focused farm. It turns a labor-intensive feeding chore into a streamlined, automated process. If the daily routine involves frequent bin filling, this auger will quickly pay for itself in saved time and reduced physical strain.

Chore-Time FLEX-AUGER: Most Versatile Conveyor

The Chore-Time FLEX-AUGER is a unique system that uses a flexible, enclosed auger to move grain around corners and into difficult configurations. Unlike rigid steel tubes, the “flex” design allows the system to follow the contours of an existing building or navigate around structural posts. It is the ultimate solution for those working within the constraints of older, non-traditional farm buildings.

This system is best utilized in permanent setups where efficiency is required inside a barn. It is exceptionally reliable for moving grain from a main bin to a small processing area or an indoor feed tank. Once installed, it operates with minimal input, making it ideal for farms that need a “set it and forget it” solution.

For the farmer retrofitting an existing barn or creating a compact, indoor milling station, there is no better choice. It acknowledges that small-scale farms rarely have ideal, open spaces. If the challenge is fitting a conveyor into a tight, awkward, or multi-room layout, the FLEX-AUGER is the definitive winner.

Brandt GrainVac 5200 EX: Best for Bin Cleanup

Emptying the final few bushels from a large grain bin is the most tedious part of the harvest cycle. The Brandt GrainVac 5200 EX solves this by using high-velocity air to suck grain out of corners and tight spots that an auger simply cannot reach. It eliminates the need to climb into the bin with a shovel, which is not only slow but also presents significant safety risks.

Beyond just cleanup, this unit is powerful enough to transfer grain over long distances or into trailers that might be awkwardly parked. The design emphasizes dust control and ease of operation, preventing the “blind” cleaning scenarios that are common with manual methods. It is a specialized tool, but for anyone who manages multiple bins, it is a massive productivity booster.

Investing in a GrainVac is an investment in human safety and efficiency. It allows for a one-person bin cleanout that can be completed in a fraction of the time. For operations handling enough volume to require large-scale storage, this machine is an essential addition to the fleet.

Harvest International T-Series: Best Value Auger

The Harvest International T-Series offers a compelling blend of high-end performance and budget-conscious design. It features a simplified hydraulic setup that makes it lighter and more nimble than many of its competitors, without sacrificing the durability required for seasonal use. It provides the reach and capacity needed for medium-sized operations at a price that leaves room in the budget for other critical farm needs.

The main advantage here is the engineering focus on reducing weight where it doesn’t matter and strengthening components where it does. The tube construction is rigid, preventing the bowing that often happens with cheaper brands, while the intake area is optimized for rapid flow. It strikes the right balance between “commercial overkill” and “disposable quality.”

For the farmer who wants a new, reliable machine without a massive financing commitment, the T-Series is the standout choice. It is honest, effective equipment that delivers exactly what it promises. It is the perfect middle-ground option for those transitioning from entry-level gear to more permanent, high-performance machinery.

Auger vs. Belt Conveyor: Which Is Right for You?

The fundamental choice between an auger and a belt conveyor comes down to the nature of the crop and the required throughput. Augers are superior for high-volume, standard grain movement where cost and space are primary considerations. They are the standard for field-to-bin transfers because they are compact, relatively cheap, and handle standard dry grains with ease.

Belt conveyors, conversely, are the gold standard for quality preservation. They operate at lower speeds and offer a “cradling” effect that prevents the cracking of seeds, which is crucial for those saving seed for planting or working with premium, high-value specialty crops. They are generally more expensive and have a larger footprint, making them less ideal for mobile field tasks.

Consider the primary goal of the harvest. If volume is the priority, go with an auger. If crop integrity and low dust are the priorities, a belt conveyor is the necessary choice. Most small-scale farms eventually find that a combination of both—an auger for the heavy lifting and a belt conveyor for final processing—creates the most balanced system.

How to Size Your Conveyor for Your Harvest

Sizing a conveyor is not just about matching the capacity of the grain dump; it is about matching the flow of the entire system. A conveyor that is too large for the tractor powering it will result in hydraulic failure or engine bogging, while one that is too small creates a bottleneck that keeps the entire crew waiting. Always check the required horsepower (HP) rating for the conveyor against the output of the tractor that will be stationed at that location.

Consider the height and reach required for your tallest bin. Many farmers make the mistake of buying for their current storage setup, only to upgrade to a slightly larger bin two years later. A rule of thumb is to purchase an auger that is at least 10% longer than the absolute maximum height requirement to allow for the angle of repose—the slope at which grain naturally settles.

Finally, think about mobility and storage. A perfectly sized auger that cannot be maneuvered through a narrow gate or stored under a standard shed roof will eventually become a liability. Measure the path the machine will travel before purchasing, ensuring that tires and intake mechanisms can clear existing barn doors and yard obstacles.

Essential Auger Safety Practices on the Farm

Grain equipment is notoriously dangerous because the sheer force required to move heavy loads does not discriminate between grain and limbs. The most critical safety rule is to ensure all guards, particularly those on the intake and PTO (Power Take-Off) shaft, are always in place. Never assume a guard is “optional” because it slows down the cleaning process; that speed is not worth the risk.

Develop a strict “kill switch” habit. Before attempting to clear a plug, unclog the intake, or adjust the discharge, turn off the power source entirely and lock out the ignition. Never rely on an assistant to “watch” the power controls while work is performed on the intake end.

Lastly, be mindful of overhead power lines. This is a leading cause of farm accidents when moving tall, portable augers between locations. Always lower the equipment completely before moving it across the farmyard, and designate a path that avoids all electrical infrastructure. Vigilance in these small, daily habits is what ensures that harvest season ends safely for everyone.

Selecting the right conveyor is a balance between your current physical constraints and your long-term production goals. By prioritizing reliability and safety, you turn a logistical challenge into a seamless part of the farming operation. With the right equipment in place, you can focus less on the mechanics of moving grain and more on the future of your harvest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a grain conveyor for small scale operations?

A small scale grain conveyor is a portable machine that moves loose grains like corn, wheat, and soybeans across short distances or into storage bins. Small scale grain conveyors typically handle 500 to 3,000 bushels per hour and run on single-phase electric motors, gas engines, or tractor PTO shafts. Unlike industrial elevator legs, these units are compact, mounted on wheeled chassis, and easy for one or two people to maneuver around tight farmyards.

What does a tubular drag grain conveyor do?

Tubular drag grain conveyors pull bulk grain through an enclosed tube using round polymer discs attached to a cable or chain. This design gently transports fragile seeds, pulses, or malting barley without causing impact cracking. Because the tube is completely sealed, the conveyor operates without generating ambient dust and protects feedstuffs or specialty grains from moisture and outside contamination during transfer.

How do I choose a grain conveyor for a small farm?

Choosing a grain conveyor requires matching the machine’s discharge height, throughput capacity, and drive type to your current storage bins and electrical supply. First, measure your tallest bin collar or truck bed to verify necessary incline and reach. Next, select belt conveyors for fragile commodities like seed beans, or traditional screw conveyors for durable grains like dry corn. Finally, ensure your power source—such as a 230-volt single-phase outlet or a 40-horsepower tractor PTO—can support the conveyor motor.

How do I clean a portable grain conveyor between different seed crops?

Cleaning a portable grain conveyor requires running the belt empty, vacuuming the intake hopper, and blowing compressed air through the tube and discharge spout. Begin by locking out all power sources to ensure worker safety. Open lower cleanout gates to release trapped kernels, then use a stiff shop brush and high-pressure air around rollers, scrapers, and transition points. Running a small charge of food-grade dry hull material or grain can help scrub out remaining residues before switching seed varieties.

Which is better for small scale grain handling, an auger or a belt conveyor?

Belt conveyors are better for preserving seed quality and moving sensitive crops, while traditional augers are better for low budgets and moving dry commodity grain. Augers cost 30% to 50% less initially and handle steep inclines up to 45 degrees, but their metal flights can crack fragile grains like pulses and soybeans. Belt conveyors operate at shallower maximum angles—usually 20 to 30 degrees—but cause virtually zero seed damage and require significantly less horsepower per bushel moved.

How much does a grain conveyor for small scale operations cost?

Small scale grain conveyors typically cost between $4,000 and $18,000 depending on length, tube diameter, belt type, and power configuration. Short electric drive-over intake hoppers start near $3,500 to $6,000. Full-length portable field conveyors measuring 30 to 45 feet, equipped with self-propelled hydraulic movers and gas engines, generally range from $12,000 to $22,000. Used units from regional farm auctions often sell for $2,000 to $7,000 based on belt wear and frame condition.

Why is grain spilling from the intake hopper on my belt conveyor?

Grain spills from conveyor hoppers primarily because the feed rate exceeds belt capacity, the incline angle is too steep, or rubber flashing is misaligned. Check the hopper skirts first to ensure the flexible rubber seals sit flush against the moving belt without gaps. If grain rolls backward down the belt, reduce your discharge incline below 25 degrees or install a textured cleated belt. Also, regulate flow from the gravity wagon gate to prevent overwhelming the hopper throat.

Is a grain conveyor worth the investment for an operation under 500 acres?

Investing in a dedicated grain conveyor is worth it for sub-500-acre farms that raise pulse crops, specialty non-GMO seeds, or retail food-grade grains. Eliminating split kernels and mechanical damage preserves grade premiums, often recovering conveyor costs within two to three harvest seasons. If an operation produces strictly commercial yellow feed corn where minor kernel damage does not trigger elevator dockage, a lower-cost conventional grain auger provides a faster return on capital.