Under $75.00, what a deal. We never had anything to haul goats or chickens in when we bought new ones or had to go to the vet. These old in-truck stock racks are readily available at farm sales. I have seen a number sell from $25 to $50. I paid $35 for this set. I lined the sides and top with 2x4 utility wire for another $35. A few repairs and we are in the livestock trucking business.

First cut the wire roll into sections that fit each side and front. Use utility wire to secure the 2x4 wire to the stock frame Next do the top, overlapping the center. Hint: Wood clamps work well to hold the wire in place until secured. Also, wait until all the wire panels are positioned before you do the corners. This way you can save wire and time by warping both sides at one time. Twist tie the wire on the outside so that animals cannot get poked by the wire ends.

As you can quickly see this set of racks was made for a long bed and I have a short bed truck. I struggled with the idea of cutting the length down to fit the bed. I decided that my next truck my be a long bed or I may want to loan them out to a friend. So I decided to install a plywood side to block the opening. This is more than adequate for chickens and goats. It can also be removed in ten minutes. I cannot recommend it for a cow.

The old-timers usually just hang their racks from a tree or the barn roof. As you see I made mine to lift with the tractor. If you choose this method be sure to put a spreader bar in the top so that the lifting strap does not bend the sides. I used a 2x4 which provides more than enough strength for a spreader bar. However, it will not support the racks as a lifting bar. I made permeate lifting hooks from an old chain and then use my crane sling lift the racks into the back of the truck. Lift only at the vertical bars.

Since we only haul goats,chickens and an occasional calf in these racks I believe we will remove the 2x12's in the bottom and install a piece of plywood to make the racks much lighter. Another project, another day.