The value of a well-written assessment description has been highlighted in recent data showcasing the correlation between the length of these descriptions and the average price per head for Angus steers (350-380kgs) sold on AuctionsPlus from 2019 to 2024.
The findings reveal that more detailed listings consistently attract higher bids, providing valuable insights for livestock vendors.
.png?width=1024&height=768&name=AVG%20$head%20based%20on%20photos%20(2).png)
Across all years examined, cattle listings with longer assessment descriptions (600–800 and 800–1000 characters) achieved the highest prices per head.
In contrast, brief descriptions (0–200 characters) consistently fetched the lowest average prices, emphasising the importance of detailed and comprehensive information to appeal to buyers in the online marketplace.
In 2024, listings with descriptions over 600 characters consistently outperformed those with shorter descriptions. This trend has remained steady over the years, proving that specificity and transparency in cattle listings are key to maximising buyer interest and securing premium bids.
Detailed descriptions provide potential buyers with crucial information about the livestock on offer, such as breed characteristics, weight, health, and temperament. In the absence of physical inspections, these details become a vital tool for decision-making, reducing uncertainty and encouraging competitive bidding.
The data clearly demonstrates that taking the time to craft an informative listing, particularly in the 600–1000 character range, pays off. Buyers are more likely to engage with—and bid on—cattle that are well-documented and presented.
Year-on-year variations in average prices also hint at the influence of broader market forces, including weather events, feed availability, and export demand. For instance, the exceptional performance in 2022 reflects a combination of strong buyer competition and favourable conditions.
To maximise returns on AuctionsPlus, assessors should focus on creating detailed, accurate, and engaging assessment descriptions. Investing time in writing a strong listing—ideally between 600 and 1000 characters—can significantly improve the final sale price.
This analysis underscores a simple but crucial takeaway for anyone listing stock on the platoform: more information equals more money. In a competitive and increasingly digital livestock market, clear and detailed communication is a must.
