Full-Time travelling shearing gang

Larger sheep farms, farming partnerships and estates with flocks too big for one shearer.

A price per sheep shorn, shared across the team after you pay helpers, fuel and equipment costs. Higher volumes per day make the business more viable.

• Experienced, efficient shearing technique
• Organising people, bookings and travel
• Strong fitness and resilience

• Employer's liability insurance if you take on employees, and public liability cover
• Employment rules, pay and self-employed status for team members, check with HMRC or an adviser
• Heavy physical demands and injury risk, which could stop your income
• Seasonal income and weather delays, so plan cash flow carefully
• Travel costs, accommodation and a suitable vehicle for the team and kit

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on your kit, the vehicle you need for the team and your travel and accommodation plans. These are estimates, so budget for your own route and team size.

Monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on the flocks you book, your rates and the length of the season. Income is seasonal and weather can cause delays, so plan your cash flow carefully.

Check employer's liability insurance if you take on employees, plus public liability cover. Check employment rules, pay and self-employed status for team members with HMRC or an adviser. Also consider the injury risk and its effect on your income.