Setting up a milk collection point? Here is a simple checklist of the equipment you need, from cans and measures to a Gerber centrifuge and cream separator.
A milk collection centre does a simple job: receive, measure, test and dispatch. The equipment you choose decides how fast, accurate and hygienic that job is. Use this checklist when setting up a new centre or upgrading an old one.
1. Milk cans
Cans carry milk from the farmer to the centre and onward to the dairy. For daily village collection, 20 LTR cans are popular, while 40 and 50 LTR cans suit vehicle routes. Choose stainless steel for long life, such as the Cowbell 20 LTR stainless steel milk can, or aluminium if budget is tight. See our milk can size guide.
2. Milk measures
Accurate measuring means fair payment. Keep a few Cowbell stainless steel milk measures in different sizes, from 100 ml to 2000 ml.
3. Gerber centrifuge for fat testing
Fat percentage sets the price paid, so a reliable machine is essential. Choose the 8, 12 or 24 test model to suit your daily samples. Read our buying guide and the step-by-step test method.
4. Cream separator (if needed)
If your centre or members separate cream, add a cream separator sized to your volume: from the 60 LPH hand-operated model to the 100 LPH electric model and larger. Our capacity guide helps you choose.
5. Cleaning and hygiene
- Food-safe detergent and brushes for cans and measures.
- Clean water supply and a drying rack so cans dry upside down.
- A shaded, clean floor area away from dust and animals.
6. Basics that people forget
- A spare set of stoppers, tubes and reagents for the Gerber test.
- A record book or system for each farmer's quantity and fat reading.
- A stable power supply or a plan for outages.
One supplier for the whole kit
When cans, measures, centrifuge and separator all come from one manufacturer, quality is matched and you have a single contact for spares and advice. Cowbell has supplied dairy equipment since 1954. Send us your list on WhatsApp and we will prepare a quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum equipment for a collection centre?
Milk cans, a milk measure, a Gerber centrifuge with tubes and reagents for fat testing, cleaning supplies and a clean, shaded space.
Can Cowbell supply the whole set?
Yes. Cowbell makes milk cans, milk measures, Gerber centrifuges and cream separators. Contact us with your needs and we will put together a quote.
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Need a quote or advice?
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