As planting season unfolds, farmers are already looking ahead to harvest and the equipment that will bring it in efficiently. At Catalyst Communications, Hot Line Farm and Antique Monthly Update, we track auction activity and buyer interest to help you make well-timed, informed equipment decisions.

While tractors, sprayers, and tillage tools dominate spring prep, grain heads— also known as flex heads or platform headers— are critical come harvest. With rising demand for late-model units and increased auction competition, now is a smart time to watch the market and plan ahead.

Grain heads have evolved from rigid, fixed-width models to flexible platforms designed for varying terrain and crop types. Modern headers integrate seamlessly with combines and often feature hydraulic tilt, draper belts, and variable-speed drives— boosting efficiency in high-yield soybean and small grain fields.

The following are recent auction results from across the U. S.:

• Case IH 1020 grain heads ranged from $ 1,000 to $ 14,500, with higher prices tied to 30 ' units featuring full-finger augers or flip-over reels. Most sales occurred in Illinois and Missouri, where older 20 '– 22 ' heads typically brought $ 2,000 to $ 4,500.

• John Deere 630F headers( all 30 ') sold between $ 5,750 and $ 37,000, with most 2012 – 2017 units bringing $ 13,000 to $ 26,000, depending on condition and upgrades like low stone dams.

• John Deere 925 headers( 25 ') sold between $ 2,200 and $ 10,250, with standard units averaging $ 2,500 –$ 6,000 and premium variants— often sold in Midwestern markets— reaching the top end of the range.

Late-model headers with modern features continue to command strong prices, while wellmaintained older platforms offer reliable value. May and June remain active buying windows— ideal for securing equipment before fall demand pushes prices higher. Whether you ' re upgrading or looking for a backup, early auction monitoring gives you a competitive edge.

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