January 2026 - Journal_Final - Flipbook - Page 9
Management
may require slightly longer cycles. By understanding
these dynamics and planning proactively, producers
can impose order on the inherent chaos of swine
production, maximizing ef昀椀ciency and animal
performance.
Communication is critical once the 昀氀ow schedule is
set. Sharing the plan with everyone involved ensures
delivery order, frequency, head counts, and group sizes
are clear and executable. Many producers use online or
printed schedules to track upcoming deliveries, monitor
pig health, and review barn performance metrics.
Regularly updating the 昀氀ow schedule keeps the team
coordinated and allows adjustments when unexpected
challenges arise. In other words, a clear pig wheel
transforms uncertainty into a predictable rhythm for the
operation.
labor run more smoothly. A clear, organized schedule
allows staff to anticipate workloads, manage resources
ef昀椀ciently, and respond quickly when challenges arise.
Smooth pig 昀氀ow ultimately bene昀椀ts everyone. Pigs
move ef昀椀ciently, staff can manage barns effectively,
and producers see improved performance and lower
costs. By creating clarity in the chaos, a well-designed
pig wheel turns daily uncertainty into predictable
outcomes. Whether you operate a sow farm, a contract
昀椀nishing site, or manage pigs from multiple sources,
understanding and managing pig 昀氀ow is essential for
long-term success.
The Financial Impact of Smooth Pig Flow
Managing pig 昀氀ow effectively has tangible 昀椀nancial
consequences. Every day of lactation lost or delayed
placement can cost roughly $0.75 per pig on the
昀椀nishing side. For a barn receiving 15,000 pigs annually,
being off by just one day on average throughout the
year can result in more than $11,000 in lost revenue.
Poor 昀氀ow doesn’t just hit the bottom line—it magni昀椀es
operational chaos. Overcrowded barns increase disease
risk and stress, slowing growth and driving up labor
and medication costs. Conversely, a well-planned 昀氀ow
keeps pigs healthier, improves growth rates, and helps
Structured Pig Flow, Stronger Biosecurity
The Pig Wheel does more than organize pig
昀氀ow—it plays a critical role in protecting herd
health. A consistent rotation helps reduce
disease risk in wean-to-昀椀nish barns by:
•
Preventing cross-contamination: Staying
on schedule avoids unplanned mixing of
groups and maintains separation between
age groups.
•
Maintaining proper stocking density:
On-time deliveries prevent overcrowding,
reducing stress and supporting stronger
immune function.
•
Improving staff compliance: A predictable
昀氀ow allows crews to follow biosecurity
protocols consistently with equipment,
tools, and traf昀椀c 昀氀ow
•
Allowing thorough cleaning: Predictable
gaps between groups ensure barns are
fully cleaned and disinfected before the
next load arrives.
•
Limiting outside exposure: Knowing
arrival times helps reduce unnecessary
visits during higher-risk periods.
In short, the Pig Wheel provides the structure
needed for clearer decisions, better execution,
and stronger biosecurity.
WINTER 2026 | 9
