Main Operating Costs for Commercial Poultry Farms

Feed Costs
Feed is the highest operating cost in poultry farming, accounting for 60-70% of total expenses.
Includes grains, protein sources, vitamins, and minerals for balanced nutrition.

Chick Procurement
The cost of purchasing day-old chicks (DOCs) from hatcheries.
Prices vary based on breed, quality, and market demand.

Housing and Equipment Maintenance
Construction and upkeep of poultry sheds, ventilation systems, and cages.
Regular maintenance of feeders, drinkers, heaters, and lighting systems.

Labor and Workforce Expenses
Salaries and wages for farm managers, caretakers, and laborers.
Additional costs for training and supervision of farm staff.

Electricity and Water Supply
Electricity costs for lighting, heating, ventilation, and automated feeding systems.
Water expenses for poultry drinking needs and farm cleaning.

Veterinary Care and Medication
Regular health check-ups, vaccination, and disease prevention measures.
Costs for antibiotics, probiotics, dewormers, and other medications.

Biosecurity Measures
Investment in disinfectants, foot dips, and farm sanitation to prevent disease outbreaks.
Implementation of controlled farm entry policies and pest control.

Waste Management and Disposal
Proper handling of poultry manure and dead birds.
Expenses for composting or selling manure as fertilizer.

Marketing and Transportation
Costs for transporting poultry products to markets or retailers.
Advertising, branding, and distribution expenses.

Depreciation and Repairs
Gradual reduction in the value of farm assets like buildings, equipment, and machinery.
Periodic repair and replacement of worn-out infrastructure.

Licensing and Compliance
Expenses for obtaining farm licenses, permits, and certifications.
Compliance with government regulations and animal welfare laws.

Miscellaneous Costs
Unforeseen expenses such as emergency repairs, seasonal price fluctuations, and insurance coverage.
By managing these costs efficiently, poultry farmers can maximize productivity and profitability.