Getting the Most Out of Your Processing Day

Written By Matthew Milliron

How DRR Processing Makes Drop-Off, Pickup & Packaging Easier for You

Processing day doesn’t have to be chaotic. At DRR Processing, we’ve worked hard to create a system that’s respectful of your time, straightforward to follow, and always focused on the quality of your product. Whether you’re new to poultry processing or a seasoned producer, here's what to expect—and how to get the most out of your experience with us.

Planning Ahead: Scheduling & Batch Size

If your plans change, we get it. But accurate batch sizes help us manage staffing and keep things running smoothly for everyone. If your batch will be 50+ birds smaller than scheduled, just let us know right away.

⚠️ Need to cancel? For large flocks (50+ birds), we ask for at least 10 days’ notice to avoid a cancellation fee. Unexpected drop-offs that are far below the scheduled amount may also result in a small batch fee.

Morning Drop-Off: What You Need to Know

📍 Location: 5437 Ganske Rd, Burton, TX 77835
🕕 Arrival Time: Between 6:15 and 7:00 AM sharp
🐔 Using DRRP crates? Please arrive closer to 6:15 AM so you have time to transfer your birds into our crates.

⏰ Late arrivals past 7:30 AM will be charged a late fee and may require USDA inspector overtime—which adds cost for everyone.

Crate Requirements & Rental Options

We care about bird welfare and USDA compliance. Here’s what we need from you:

  • Use clean, stackable poultry crates

  • Max 10 birds per crate

  • No broken crates or overcrowding

  • Birds over 8 lbs may incur additional fees

Need crates? We rent them for $3 each. If you're using our crates, you'll be responsible for loading your birds into them upon arrival.
Looking to own? Ask us about our Pakster Crate Purchase Program—top-quality crates at lower prices than ordering direct.

Feed Withdrawal Guidelines

For food safety, please:

  • Pull feed by noon the day before slaughter

  • Keep water available until loading

Not following feed withdrawal may result in additional fees or, in some cases, suspension from future processing dates.

Why We Air Chill—and Why It Matters to You

Unlike ice bath systems that can water-log meat and dilute flavor, our air chilling process delivers:

  • Little to no water retention – Preserves flavor & texture

  • Better taste – No waterlogged meat

  • Longer shelf life – Less bacterial exposure

  • Stronger product integrity

This process takes longer—but it's worth it. Your birds are chilled overnight and packaged the next day to ensure maximum quality.

Product Pickup: Flexible & Easy

Pickup is scheduled the afternoon after your slaughter date.

Need to manage your trailer space? You're welcome to come back later the same day of slaughter to collect your crates—typically by noon. Just give us a heads up so we can have them ready for you.

🚛 Bring ice chests or a refrigerated vehicle—we don’t provide ice or transport.
🧊 Ice is required unless you have cold storage.
❄️ We also offer short-term holding and long-term freezing if you need more time.

Packaging That Reflects Your Care

Your birds are packaged to the highest standards—vacuum-sealed in thick, 5 mil bags that lock in freshness and present beautifully. Customers regularly tell us it’s the best packaging they’ve ever received from a processor.

Clear, Custom Labeling

Every product includes a professional label with:

  • Your farm name, logo & contact info

  • Pack date, weight, lot number, and required language
    Want to add pricing? Just mark it on your cut sheet.
    Need something custom? We can help.

Transport Tips

Hot or cold weather, we’ve got guidelines to keep your birds safe and reduce stress:

  • Use fewer birds per crate in summer

  • Allow air flow between crate stacks

  • Use wind breaks on trailers during highway travel

  • For winter, enclosed trailers with ventilation are best

And please—do not bring birds showing signs of illness. We take biosecurity seriously, and all flocks are inspected upon arrival.

Final Step: Affidavit of Quality

All producers are required to complete a short Affidavit of Quality on their first visit to DRR Processing. This form confirms your birds are free of chemical residues (antibiotics, pesticides, etc.). It’s quick, straightforward, and helps protect your farm and our facility. Once it’s on file, you’re all set for future visits.

Have Questions?

We’re here to make the process smoother for you—from drop-off to pickup, and every detail in between. Want help with crate rental? Need to update your batch size? Just reach out.

Your Quality Birds. Our Trusted Process.

Matthew Milliron
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