Help Center & FAQ
Find answers about shipping, orders, packaging, and American Wagyu from our fourth generation family farm. We’re here to help every step of the way.
What is Wagyu?
Wagyu is a Japanese breed of cattle known for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. The word “Wagyu” simply means “Japanese cattle.” American Wagyu is a cross between traditional Wagyu and high-quality American cattle, giving you the best of both worlds—deep flavor, buttery texture, and consistent quality. At The Hilltop, we raise American Wagyu that delivers a premium steakhouse experience right at your own table.
Why is Wagyu more expensive?
Wagyu costs more because it takes more time, care, and resources to raise these cattle well. Our cattle are raised longer than conventional beef and are fed a high-quality, carefully balanced diet to develop their signature marbling. We also operate as a small, fourth-generation family farm, focusing on quality over quantity. Every cut reflects generations of stewardship, attention, and pride in doing things the right way.
How are your cattle cared for?
Animal care is at the heart of everything we do. Our cattle are:
- Raised on pasture in Missouri
- Given plenty of space to roam and grow naturally
- Hand-cared for by our family every day
- Finished on a high-quality grain ration to develop exceptional marbling
- Raised in low-stress environments because calm cattle produce better beef
From the moment they are born until harvest, our family personally oversees their care. We believe that how an animal is raised directly impacts the quality of the food on your table.
Do you give your animals hormones, vaccines, or antibiotics?
We do not use added growth hormones.
Our cattle do receive routine vaccines to protect their health and well-being, just like other livestock and pets. In the rare case an animal needs antibiotics to treat illness, it is handled responsibly and follows all strict withdrawal guidelines before entering the food supply. Our goal is always to raise healthy cattle in the most natural and responsible way possible.
How are orders packed and shipped?
Your order is:
- Vacuum-sealed for freshness
- Packed in insulated boxes
- Shipped with gel packs
- Carefully prepared to arrive frozen
We treat every order as if we were sending it to our own family.
What shipping rates do you offer?
We offer 2 Regions for Shipping:
1) Midwest Region: MO, KS, IL, IA, NE, AR, OK, IN, KY, TN, WI
- [Orders less than $50] $49.99 Flat Rate Ground Service (2-4 days once shipped)
- [Orders $50–$149] $14.99 Flat Rate Ground Service (2-4 days once shipped)
- [Orders of $150+] Free Ground Service (2-4 days once shipped)
- $49.99 2nd Day Air (2 days)
2) Extended Region: All other states (excluding AK & HI)
- - $49.99 2nd Day Air (2 days once shipped)
LOCAL PICKUP
- All of our products are available for local pickup. If you choose "pickup" at checkout, we will contact you to set up an appointment.
How fast will I get my order?
We ship on Mondays and Tuesdays to prevent delays and ensure your beef arrives frozen.
Orders placed Wednesday–Sunday will ship the following Monday. Please allow up to 10 days total from order to delivery depending on your location.
How do I track my order?
Once your order ships, you will receive an email with tracking information so you can follow your package every step of the way.
What should I do if my order is delayed?
If your shipment is delayed, don’t panic! Our packaging is designed to keep your beef frozen for extended transit times. If your order arrives thawed or damaged, contact us within 24 hours and include photos so we can make it right.
*Need more info? Read our full shipping policy or for additional questions about shipping, please contact us at hello@thehilltopwagyu.com
Do you sell bulk beef? How do I order?
Yes! We offer whole, half, quarter and eighth beef shares, which we call Reserve. These are pre-orders only, which must be submitted by March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1 as we only offer Reserve bulk beef processing 4 times a year.
Bulk orders allow you to stock your freezer and customize your cuts. To order:
- Visit our Reserve section online.
- Choose your share.
- Reserve with a deposit.
- We will guide you through your cut sheet and let you know when your order is ready.
- Local pickup only, no shipping on bulk beef.
What cuts and quantities are included in the Reserve bulk beef shares?
We have a printable pdf that shows approximations of cuts and quantities included in the whole, half, quarter, and eighth shares. What would be the best way to include that pdf…maybe insert a link?
Can I make customizations to my order?
Most of our individual cuts and bundles are pre-packaged to ensure consistency and efficiency. However, our whole and half bulk beef shares offer full customization through a detailed cut sheet. If you have special requests, please reach out—we’re always happy to help when possible!
Is my product safe to refreeze when it arrives?
Yes. If your beef is still cold or partially frozen when it arrives, it is safe to refreeze. Many customers do this with no issues. For best quality, keep your beef frozen until you are ready to enjoy it.
How long is my product safe in the refrigerator before eating?
Once thawed:
- Steaks and roasts: 3–5 days
- Ground beef: 1–2 days
For best quality and flavor, we recommend enjoying your beef as soon as possible after thawing.
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes! The Hilltop gift cards are a thoughtful way to share premium American Wagyu with family and friends. They are available in digital format and can be used anytime in our online store.
Do you have a retail store?
We do not have a traditional retail storefront at this time. We operate primarily online and through local pickup. This allows us to focus on raising exceptional cattle and serving our customers well.
Do you sell your beef at any restaurants or grocery stores?
Yes, we currently partner with select restaurants and retailers. If you are a restaurant, grocery store, or specialty market interested in carrying The Hilltop Wagyu, please contact us for wholesale pricing and availability at hello@thehilltopwagyu.com
Do you offer any discounts?
Yes! First-time customers receive 10% off their first order when they sign up for our email list. We also occasionally offer seasonal specials and exclusive promotions to our Hilltop community.
How do I cancel my order?
Please contact us as soon as possible at hello@thehilltopwagyu.com. If your order has not shipped, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
How do I change my order?
Reach out to us right away. If your order has not yet been packed or shipped, we are happy to help make adjustments whenever possible.
Due to the perishable nature of our products, we cannot accept returns. However, your satisfaction is extremely important to us. If there is ever an issue with your order, please contact us within 24 hours of delivery and we will work with you to resolve the situation.
Check our returns policy for more information.