Raywood Livestock Market stands as a cornerstone of the agricultural community in Southeast Texas, providing a vital link between cattle producers and buyers for over half a century. Located strategically along the Highway 90 corridor between Houston and Beaumont, this family-owned auction facility has maintained a reputation for integrity, hard work, and community service. For ranching operations in Liberty County and the surrounding regions, the market is more than just a place of business; it is a weekly gathering spot where the pulse of the regional cattle industry can be felt most strongly.

The primary event at Raywood Livestock Market is the weekly cattle sale held every Monday at 12:00 PM (Noon). This consistent schedule allows local ranchers to plan their livestock movements with precision, ensuring that animals are presented in peak condition for competitive bidding. Managed by the Brett family for over 25 years, the facility combines decades of traditional auction experience with modern logistical efficiency to serve the diverse needs of the Texas beef industry.

Location and Accessibility of the Raywood Facility

Raywood Livestock Market is situated at 14810 East Highway 90, Raywood, TX 77582. Its location is one of its greatest assets, offering easy access for trailers and heavy-duty trucks traveling from various parts of Southeast Texas. Being positioned between major hubs like Houston and Beaumont means that the market attracts a wide pool of buyers, including order buyers, local stocker operators, and representatives from larger processing entities.

For those navigating to the facility, the market is easily identifiable on the north side of Highway 90. The surrounding landscape of Liberty County is characterized by its rich grazing lands, making Raywood a natural epicenter for livestock commerce. The proximity to the Gulf Coast region also influences the types of cattle frequently seen at this market, often featuring breeds that are well-adapted to the humid, subtropical climate of the Texas coastal plains.

Operational Schedule and Livestock Receiving Times

Understanding the operational rhythm of the Raywood Livestock Market is crucial for both sellers and buyers to ensure a smooth transaction. While the auction itself takes place on Monday, the preparations begin much earlier to accommodate the health and safety of the animals.

When to Drop Off Livestock for Sale

The facility begins receiving cattle on the day before the sale. Starting every Sunday at 8:00 AM, the gates are open for ranchers to deliver their livestock. This 24-hour window before the auction is essential for several reasons:

  1. Settling the Animals: Cattle that have been transported can experience stress. Arriving on Sunday allows them time to rest, drink water, and settle into their pens before they enter the high-energy environment of the auction ring.
  2. Tagging and Processing: Each animal must be properly identified and tagged upon arrival. The yard crew at Raywood works efficiently to ensure that every head of cattle is logged into the system, enabling accurate tracking of ownership and sales data.
  3. Veterinary and Brand Inspections: Texas law requires specific inspections for livestock commerce. Early arrival ensures that the necessary health checks and brand verifications can be completed by authorized personnel without rushing before the noon start time on Monday.

The Monday Auction Start Time

The auction ring comes to life every Monday at 12:00 PM sharp. The "Noon Sale" is a tradition that allows morning chores on the ranch to be completed before heading to the market. It also provides enough time for late-arriving buyers to inspect the pens and evaluate the quality of the livestock on offer that day.

The Brett Family Legacy and Ownership History

The success of Raywood Livestock Market is deeply rooted in the dedication of the Brett family. While the market has served the region for over 50 years, the Brett family took over the ownership and operation more than a quarter-century ago, starting in 1984. The legacy began when John Brett partnered with Gerald Faircloth, laying the foundation for what would become a premier livestock commission business.

Today, the operation is a multi-generational family effort. John Brett, serving as president, has been joined by his children and their spouses, including Kory Brett, Kade and Kylee Brett, and Kati and Richard Godare. This family-centric management style ensures that customers are treated with a personal touch that is often lost in larger, corporate-run facilities. When you do business at Raywood, you are interacting directly with the owners who have a vested interest in the success of the local agricultural economy.

Preparing Livestock for Sale at Raywood Market

For a seller, the goal is to receive the highest possible market price for their calves, cows, or bulls. Achieving this requires more than just showing up at the gate. Professionalism in how cattle are presented can significantly impact the final bid.

Sorting and Penning Strategy

The staff at Raywood Livestock Market is experienced in sorting cattle into groups that appeal to specific buyer needs. Uniformity in size, weight, and breed often commands a premium in the auction ring. Sellers should communicate with the yard crew about any specific groupings they prefer, though the market's experts are highly skilled at "pairing" animals to maximize their marketability.

Health and Documentation Requirements

To maintain the integrity of the sale and protect the regional herd, sellers should ensure all livestock are in good health. Providing documentation of vaccinations or "natural" (no-hormone) status can sometimes lead to specialized buyer interest. In Texas, brand inspections are a critical part of the process, and having your paperwork in order helps prevent delays in payment.

Commission and Fees

As a livestock commission business, Raywood Livestock Market charges a fee for the services provided, including the auctioneering, yardage, feed, and handling. These fees are competitive and reflect the high level of service and marketing effort the family puts into every sale. It is always recommended to check the latest fee schedule directly with the office to understand the deductions from the final sale price.

Buying Livestock at the Raywood Auction

Buying at a live auction is a fast-paced experience that requires preparation and a keen eye. Whether you are a local farmer looking to add a few head to your pasture or a professional order buyer, the process at Raywood is designed to be transparent and efficient.

Registration and Bidding Procedures

First-time buyers must register at the main office before the sale begins. This typically requires providing valid identification and, in some cases, bank references or proof of financial responsibility. Once registered, you will receive a buyer number.

In the auction ring, the auctioneer’s chant moves quickly. It is essential to stay focused. The auctioneer and the ring-men are there to help; if you are unsure of the current bid, a quick signal to a ring-man can clarify the price. Bidding is a binding contract, so having a clear budget and knowledge of current market values is vital.

Arranging Post-Sale Transportation

Once the hammer falls and you are the high bidder, the logistics of moving the cattle become the priority. Raywood Livestock Market offers load-out services following the sale. If you do not have your own trailer, the market office can often provide contact information for reputable local livestock haulers who can transport your purchases to their new home.

The Raywood Livestock Market Cafe Experience

One of the most unique aspects of the Raywood experience is the market cafe. Open on Mondays, the cafe serves as the social heart of the facility. It is where the "Experience" of the Texas cattle market truly shines.

Monday Lunch Specials and Community Dining

The cafe is famous for its "Monday Plate Lunch," a tradition that brings together ranchers, buyers, and even locals who just want a good home-cooked meal. The menu often features Texas staples that provide the energy needed for a long day at the sale. Based on historical offerings, visitors might find:

  • Beef Tips and Rice: A hearty favorite often served with green beans and cornbread.
  • Smothered Pork Steak: Served with gravy and seasonal sides like corn or mashed potatoes.
  • Homemade Desserts: Options like banana pudding, peach cobbler, or chocolate cake are frequent highlights.

The cafe environment is where the real "market talk" happens. It’s where you find out about local grazing conditions, which neighbors are expanding their herds, and what people think about the latest cattle cycles. For many, a cup of coffee and a piece of pie at the cafe is as much a part of the Monday routine as the auction itself.

How to Read and Utilize Market Reports

Raywood Livestock Market provides weekly market reports that are essential tools for anyone involved in the cattle business. These reports summarize the prices paid for various classes of livestock, categorized by weight, sex (steers, heifers, cows, bulls), and quality.

Interpreting the Weight Classes

Cattle are typically sold by the hundredweight (CWT). For example, if the report shows that 500-pound steers sold for $250.00, it means the price was $2.50 per pound. By studying the weekly reports, sellers can decide if it is the right time to market their calves or if they should wait for a potential seasonal upswing.

Following the 2025 and 2026 Sale Calendar

The market maintains a consistent schedule, but there are occasionally breaks for holidays or special sales. The market has already outlined its reporting schedule well into 2025 and early 2026. Consistent sale dates in October, November, and December 2025 lead into the new year, with reports scheduled through March and April of 2026. Staying updated on these dates ensures you never miss a primary marketing window.

The Role of Auction Markets in Southeast Texas Agriculture

In an era of increasing online commerce, the live auction market remains a critical piece of agricultural infrastructure. Markets like Raywood provide "true price discovery." This means that the price of an animal is determined by the actual demand in the room at that moment, rather than an arbitrary figure set by a single buyer.

Supporting Local Economies

Every dollar spent at the Raywood Livestock Market helps support the local economy in Liberty County. From the 8-10 employees who work the yard and the office to the local feed stores and equipment dealers who serve the ranchers who visit the market, the economic "multiplier effect" of a healthy livestock auction is significant.

Preserving Ranching Traditions

The Brett family’s commitment to keeping the market family-owned and operated helps preserve the ranching heritage of Southeast Texas. By providing a reliable venue for small and large producers alike, they ensure that the next generation of Texas ranchers has a place to do business with people they trust.

Why Choose Raywood for Your Livestock Needs?

Choosing a market involves more than just looking at the nearest location. Ranchers often travel extra miles to go to a barn where they know the cattle will be handled with care and the buyers will be numerous.

  1. Integrity and Honesty: With over 25 years of family ownership, the Bretts have built a reputation for fair dealing.
  2. Expert Handling: The yard crew is skilled in low-stress livestock handling, which is better for the animals and the final sale price.
  3. Broad Buyer Base: The market's reputation attracts a consistent group of buyers, ensuring competitive bidding on all classes of cattle.
  4. Complete Service: From the Sunday receiving to the Monday lunch special, Raywood provides a comprehensive experience for the agricultural community.

Frequently Asked Questions About Raywood Livestock Market

What time does the cattle sale start at Raywood?

The weekly cattle sale starts every Monday at 12:00 PM (Noon). It is recommended to arrive earlier if you need to register as a buyer or inspect the livestock in the pens.

Can I drop off my cattle on Sunday?

Yes, Raywood Livestock Market begins receiving cattle every Sunday at 8:00 AM. They provide 24-hour care and water for the animals until the sale on Monday.

How do I contact the market for current prices or special sales?

You can reach the main office at (936) 587-4941. For specific inquiries, you can also contact the owners directly: Kory Brett at (936) 334-6628 or John Brett at (936) 334-5067.

Is there a place to eat at the market?

Yes, the Raywood Livestock Market Cafe is open on Mondays, offering a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including a popular weekly plate lunch special.

Where is Raywood Livestock Market located?

The facility is located at 14810 East HWY 90, Raywood, Texas 77582, between the cities of Houston and Beaumont.

What kind of livestock do they sell?

The market primarily focuses on cattle, including calves, yearlings, replacement heifers, slaughter cows, and bulls.

Summary of Operations at Raywood Livestock Market

Raywood Livestock Market continues to be a vital asset for the Southeast Texas agricultural sector. By offering a weekly, reliable platform for the sale of cattle, the Brett family facilitates the commerce that sustains local ranching families. With its convenient location on Highway 90, its storied 50-year history, and its commitment to traditional values, the market remains the go-to destination for livestock professionals in Liberty County and beyond. Whether you are selling a single cow or a large draft of calves, or if you are simply looking for a great lunch and a bit of community conversation on a Monday afternoon, Raywood Livestock Market provides a professional and welcoming environment for all.