The Suggested Sale Terms and Conditions (SSTC) is a long-standing document created by the American Angus Association as a service to our members as well as those who purchase Angus genetics.

Previous versions were created for public auctions only. However, today’s Suggested Sales Terms and Conditions have evolved for the application of public auctions, private treaty sales between two parties, silent auctions, internet auctions or any type of sale as described by the seller. 

This document does change from time to time, so I would regularly check to make sure you are publicizing the most current form. Although not mandatory, this document has been useful for decades by giving consistency to the business transactions between buyers and sellers of Angus genetics.

The SSTC is for voluntary use. It is an agreement between the buyer and seller only, therefore the Association has no enforcement responsibilities outside those set forth in the rules of the Association. It is very important to remember these are suggested terms and conditions and the American Angus Association is not responsible for their enforcement. This document is designed to resolve any issues or disputes amongst the parties involved.

The best way to familiarize yourself with this document is to break it down into four parts: Terms of Sale, Guarantees, Genetic Conditions and Miscellaneous.

Terms of Sale covers any inconsistency in the terms of any sale material, including sale books, supplement sheets or day-of-sale announcements. It also explains buyer’s risk and discusses seller responsibilities, including proper permanent identification and the timely transfer of ownership. The certificates required when registering offspring from artificial insemination (AI) are also addressed and were the responsibility of the seller, but now are the responsibility of the buyer.

In the Guarantees section, protection includes the animal is properly registered with the Association and the pedigree, performance data and genetic information as represented in any sale material is accurate. In addition, fertility guarantees for both bulls and females, including semen and embryos, are explained. The return or adjustment options are discussed to clarify procedures when something goes awry. The only health requirement is the animal be eligible for interstate shipment as required by applicable federal and state regulations.

The Genetic Conditions section states it is the seller’s responsibility to disclose any information regarding the testing of genetic conditions recognized by the Association and if the animal has a potential carrier designation on its pedigree.

The Miscellaneous section states the terms in the SSTC document constitute a contract between the buyer and seller of each animal and are equally binding upon both parties, and each sale or resale of an animal constitutes a separate transaction. It also states neither the Association nor any director, officer, employee or representative of the Association or any of its related entities assumes any liability, legal or otherwise, in connection with any sale or transaction conducted under the terms of the SSTC; nor shall the Association, its directors, officers, employees or representatives assume any liability or be responsible in any way for enforcing the terms and conditions of any agreement between buyer and seller.

Sale day is a great day for everyone as you are surrounded by friends, family, neighbors and customers. The suggested sale terms and conditions are a great way to make sure you are successful in your operation for many years to come, and take some of the stress out of one of the most important days of the year.

Editor’s note: For more information, please contact the Association Member Services Department at 816-383-5100, or email landers@angus.org.