@cfs_agriculture
Aerial view of almond processing operations in Ballico, California's Central Valley

Almond Hulling & Shelling

Our Ballico processing facility runs millions of pounds of almond meats every year -- two shifts strong

Getting your almonds out of the field is only half the job. At Custom Farm Services, our hulling and shelling facility in Ballico processes millions of pounds of almond meats every year -- turning your field-run crop into market-ready product with the speed and care your operation demands. Whether you harvest with us or bring in your own crop, our plant is built to run your product when it's ready, not when we get around to it.

Our Hulling & Shelling Operation

High-Volume Processing, Two Shifts Strong

Our Ballico facility operates on a two-shift schedule during the processing season, giving us the throughput to handle the volume Central Valley almond growers need. We process millions of pounds of almond meats annually, and our operation is built for consistency -- uniform hull removal, accurate shelling, and clean separation, load after load.

Less Stockpiling, More Results

We know that product sitting in a pile isn't doing anyone any good. Our approach is simple: we strive to run your almonds when they're ready. That means less time stockpiled in the yard and faster turnaround from field to processed meats -- better for your product quality and better for your cash flow.

A Seamless Harvest-to-Huller Pipeline

For growers who use our custom harvesting services, the transition from field to processing facility is seamless. Your crop moves from our harvesters to our huller with coordinated scheduling and minimal downtime. One company, one point of contact, one smooth operation from shaking to shipping.

Capabilities

A processing operation built for the volume and pace of Central Valley almond growing:

Millions of pounds processed annually
Two-shift operation at peak season
Full hull removal & shelling
Clean, accurate separation
Coordinated scheduling with harvest crews
Growers with 10+ harvestable acres welcome
All standard California almond varieties
Central Ballico location

Grower-Friendly Minimums

We believe quality processing shouldn't be reserved only for the largest operations. Custom Farm Services accepts growers with as few as 10 harvestable acres. If you've been told your operation is too small, or you've struggled to find a huller that will take your crop seriously, give us a call. We'll run your product with the same attention we give every load.

Our Process

A coordinated path from field-run crop to market-ready meats:

1

Schedule

Contact our team to reserve your spot. If we're handling your harvest too, we line up the logistics so your crop flows straight from field to facility.

2

Delivery

Field-run almonds arrive at our Ballico plant -- delivered by our harvest crews or dropped off on a schedule we coordinate with you.

3

Hulling

The crop runs through uniform hull removal, stripping the outer hull cleanly while protecting the integrity of the nut beneath.

4

Shelling & Separation

Accurate shelling and clean separation deliver market-ready meats, consistent load after load through our two-shift operation.

5

Turnaround

We prioritize keeping the queue moving so your product spends less time stockpiled and more time headed to market.

Why Growers Choose CFS for Hulling & Shelling

Speed to Processing

We run your product when it's ready, not weeks later. Two shifts during the season keep stockpile time down and turnaround fast.

Proven Volume

Millions of pounds processed every season with consistent results -- uniform hulling, accurate shelling, clean separation.

Harvest Integration

Pair with our custom harvesting for a complete, coordinated service from shaking to shipping.

Family-Owned Accountability

When you call, you talk to the people running the plant -- not a corporate call center. Established 1969, four generations in Central Valley agriculture.

Schedule Your Crop

Reserve processing for this season or lock in a full harvest-to-huller package. We respond within 24 hours.

Service Area

Our Ballico facility serves almond growers across the Central Valley:

What Our Clients Say

Trusted by growers across the Central Valley

"Custom Farm Services did an outstanding job removing our old almond orchard. The crew was professional, efficient, and left the field clean and ready for replanting. They handled everything from pushing to grinding and even coordinated the chip hauling. Highly recommend them to any grower in the Valley."
DR

Dante Rojas

Ballico, CA

"We've used Custom Farm Services for three separate orchard removals over the past five years. Each time, they showed up on time, worked quickly, and delivered exactly what they promised. They also helped us navigate the Air District grant paperwork, which saved us a significant amount. These guys know what they're doing."
KD

Kuldip Dola

Livingston, CA

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about our Ballico hulling and shelling facility

Do I need to use your harvesting service to use the huller?
No. While pairing our harvest and hulling services creates the most seamless experience, we accept crop from growers who handle their own harvest or use other custom harvesters. Just coordinate delivery with our team and we'll get your product on the schedule.
What is the minimum acreage you accept?
We accept growers with as few as 10 harvestable acres. We believe every grower deserves access to professional hulling and shelling, regardless of operation size -- and we run smaller crops with the same attention we give every load.
How quickly will my crop be processed after delivery?
Our goal is to run your product when it's ready. We operate two shifts during the season specifically to minimize stockpile time and get your almonds processed as quickly as possible. Turnaround depends on seasonal volume, but we prioritize keeping the queue moving.
Where is your hulling facility located?
Our hulling and shelling plant is located in Ballico, California -- centrally positioned to serve growers across Merced and Stanislaus counties and the broader Central Valley.
How do I get my crop to your facility?
If you're using our full harvest service, we handle the logistics from field to facility. If you're delivering independently, contact our team to coordinate drop-off scheduling and load requirements.
What varieties do you process?
We process all standard California almond varieties. If you have questions about a specific variety or crop condition, reach out and we'll discuss how best to handle your product.

Ready to Process Your Crop?

Whether you need a hulling partner for this season or a full harvest-to-huller package, we're ready to talk.