Helpful Tips for Getting Ready for Your Pork Share

So, you’ve reserved your pork share... heck yes!

You’re about to stock your freezer with incredible forest-raised pork. Let’s make sure you’re fully prepped so pick-up day goes smooth as butter (or bacon grease, if we’re being honest).

Here are a few tips to help you get ready:

1. Bring Coolers (And Plenty of Them)

Pork shares take up space and you’ll want to keep everything good and frozen on the ride home.

Tip: Invest in sturdy coolers. We like the Igloo chest coolers. Even better, pop some ice packs or frozen water bottles in them ahead of time so they’re nice and cold when you load up.

For whole shares, you'll need 3-4 Igloo 48qt chest coolers to bring home all your pork. Maybe an extra one just in case.

The more you can load in the cooler, the colder it will stay. We've drove over an hour with meat in the back of the truck on the hottest summer day and it was still frozen when we arrived.

2. Clean Out and Organize Your Freezer

You’ll need room, lots of it!

This is the perfect excuse to clear out old mystery bags and reorganize.

Check out my post with Freezer Organization Tips to make the most of your space.

3. Plan a Sorting System

Once you’re home, you don’t want to dig around to find the bacon or chops.

Tip: Use reusable grocery bags or bins inside your freezer to group cuts like roasts in one section, sausage in another.

4. Label Everything

While your cuts will already be labeled, sometimes they can get frosty or hard to read over time.

Consider adding an extra label or inventory list taped to the freezer door so you know what you have at a glance. Click HERE to get my freezer inventory sheet.

5. Make a Cooking Game Plan

You’re going to have lots of delicious options.

It helps to plan a few meals ahead so you can start enjoying your pork right away.

If you need inspiration, keep an eye on your email. I’m always sharing new recipes and tips.

6. Bring a Buddy

Seriously, pork shares can be heavy!

If you can, bring a friend or family member to help you load your coolers.

7. Ask Questions

If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to reach out.

We're here to help you feel confident and excited about your pork share.

Ready to fill your freezer? Excited to see what you get!

For the full step-by-step process, check out Step-by-Step for Purchasing Bulk Pork Shares.

Edwards Family Farms NC | McDowell County's favorite pasture-raised meats. Serving western NC with the best pasture-raised meats straight from the farm. Local pick up only.