Hog panels are robust fencing components primarily used for livestock control, particularly swine, but have also become popular for general farm and residential applications. These prefabricated panels are typically constructed from heavy-gauge galvanized steel wire that is welded into a rigid mesh. They most often measure 16 feet in length and between 34 to 50 inches in height. The mesh design is usually graduated, meaning the openings are smaller at the bottom to prevent smaller animals from slipping through, while the larger openings near the top reduce material cost and allow for greater visibility. This durable, pre-cut form makes them simpler to install than traditional rolled wire fencing.
Current Market Price Ranges
The price of a standard 16-foot hog panel is quoted per panel and can fluctuate significantly based on current metal markets and regional availability. For a basic, standard-duty panel measuring 16 feet long and around 34 inches high, the price generally falls into a low-to-mid-range estimate of $32 to $35 per panel. These panels are constructed with durable galvanized steel, often utilizing a 4-gauge wire thickness for strength.
A higher-end or heavy-duty panel, sometimes marketed as a combination or feedlot panel, may cost more, with prices reaching up to $99 for a single 16-foot by 50-inch sheet. This higher price point often reflects a heavier gauge of steel or a specialized design meant for containing larger or more determined livestock.
Key Variables Affecting Panel Price
The wire gauge is the primary factor influencing a panel’s cost. Wire gauge is inversely related to thickness, meaning a lower number indicates a thicker, stronger, and more expensive wire. Panels made with heavy-duty 4-gauge wire will cost more than those using a lighter 6-gauge wire because they require more raw material and offer greater resistance to impact.
The panel’s dimensions also affect the price, with non-standard heights or lengths often incurring a premium. Hog panels are typically 34 inches tall, which is shorter and more economical than the 50-inch height common to cattle panels. The type of protective coating applied to the steel further adjusts the final cost; while standard galvanization is common, specialty finishes like powder-coating or dipping can increase the price point. Buyers can reduce the per-panel cost by taking advantage of volume purchasing, as suppliers often offer discounts for buying panels in bundles or by the pallet.
Where to Buy and Logistical Expenses
Hog panels are widely available at local farm and ranch supply stores and large-scale big box home improvement retailers. While these physical stores offer immediate availability, customers must account for the logistical challenge of transporting the 16-foot-long panels. Unlike smaller fencing materials, these panels cannot be easily loaded into a standard pickup truck bed and require a utility trailer or flatbed that can accommodate the full length.
If the buyer does not own suitable transportation, they must factor in the cost of renting a utility trailer, which can range from $60 to $70 for a daily rental of a 16-foot unit. Freight costs for oversized items are significant and often require specialized Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping. Residential delivery carries an additional fee, typically ranging from $60 to $100, on top of the base freight charge, making pickup a more economical choice for smaller quantities.
Hog Panel Costs Versus Alternative Fencing
The initial cost of hog panels is generally higher than basic rolled wire, but they save money on installation labor. Welded wire rolls are typically less expensive per linear foot, with costs ranging from $1 to $15 per linear foot depending on gauge and coating. However, rolls require stretching, specialized tools, and more closely spaced posts, adding to the overall labor and hardware cost.
Cattle panels, which are structurally similar to hog panels, are generally 50 inches tall and feature wider mesh spacing, making them unsuitable for smaller livestock but often similarly priced to high-end hog panels. Traditional wood fencing can be initially more affordable per linear foot than pre-fabricated panels but requires more maintenance, which increases the long-term expense. Hog panels offer a middle ground, providing a durable, low-maintenance solution with a simple installation process due to their rigid, pre-welded structure.