Harvest Checklist: 15 Things to Do Before the Combines Roll
Be prepared before harvest begins. A few hours of preparation can save days of frustration when it’s time to fill bins.
Harvest is one of the busiest times of the year. When trucks are lined up and grain is coming off the field, the last thing anyone wants is confusion about where each load belongs.
Here’s a simple checklist to help your harvest run more smoothly.
✅ 1. Label Every Grain Bin
Every bin should have a clearly visible number and crop identification.
Examples:
- Bin 1
- Bin 2
- Wheat
- Canola
- Barley
- Oats
- Peas
Large, easy-to-read labels help everyone—from family members to seasonal employees—know exactly where each load belongs.
✅ 2. Check Bin Numbers Match Your Farm Maps
If your yard map says “Bin 14,” make sure the bin is actually labeled “14.”
Consistent numbering prevents costly mistakes during busy harvest days.
✅ 3. Label Empty Storage Before Harvest Starts
Don’t wait until trucks are lining up.
Pre-label bins with:
- Crop type
- Seed variety
- Intended storage
- Delivery destination
✅ 4. Inspect Your Grain Bins
Walk around every bin and check for:
- Roof leaks
- Damaged vents
- Door seals
- Aeration fans
- Ladders
- Safety cages
Fixing small issues now is much easier than during harvest.
✅ 5. Clean Every Bin
Remove:
- Old grain
- Dust
- Insects
- Mold
- Debris
Even a small amount of leftover grain can contaminate the next crop.
✅ 6. Label Blower Pipes
Clearly mark every blower pipe so everyone knows which bin it feeds.
Simple labels can prevent loading the wrong bin.
✅ 7. Prepare Your Trucks
Label:
- Truck numbers
- Trailer numbers
- Delivery locations
- Crop assignments
This helps drivers stay organized throughout the season.
✅ 8. Organize Fertilizer & Seed Storage
Clearly identify:
- Urea
- Phosphate
- Treated Seed
- Wheat Seed
- Canola Seed
This reduces confusion during fall work.
✅ 9. Test Equipment
Before harvest begins, check:
- Augers
- Conveyors
- Grain vacs
- Moisture tester
- Grain carts
- Scale
A quick inspection now can prevent downtime later.
✅ 10. Make Emergency Supplies Easy to Find
Keep extra:
- Tarps
- Flashlights
- Fuel
- Hydraulic oil
- Shear bolts
- Belts
- Bearings
You’ll be glad you did.
✅ 11. Update Your Yard Whiteboard
Include:
- Bin assignments
- Moisture levels
- Delivery schedules
- Trucks in use
- Priority fields
A central information board keeps everyone on the same page.
✅ 12. Review Safety Procedures
Remind everyone about:
- Grain entrapment hazards
- PTO safety
- Lock-out procedures
- Working at heights
- Communication protocols
A short safety review can make a big difference.
✅ 13. Check Weather Forecasts
Keep an eye on changing conditions and adjust harvest plans accordingly.
Having bins clearly labeled makes it easier to switch crops or storage plans if the weather changes.
✅ 14. Walk Through Harvest Day
Before the first load arrives, ask yourself:
- Where does each crop go?
- Which trucks haul which crops?
- Which bins are empty?
- Does everyone know the plan?
A quick walkthrough can uncover small issues before they become bigger ones.
✅ 15. Make Organization Easy
Harvest moves quickly, and clear labeling helps reduce unnecessary questions and delays.
Whether you’re managing a few bins or a large yard, having visible, durable labels makes it easier for everyone to know where grain belongs.
Harvest Starts With Good Organization
A well-organized yard helps reduce confusion, improves communication, and keeps harvest moving efficiently. Taking the time to prepare before the combines roll can save time throughout the season.
If you’re updating your yard before harvest, Brooks Custom Bins offers customizable magnetic labels for grain bins, feed bins, blower pipes, trucks, fertilizer storage, and more—designed to help farms stay organized year after year.