Right now my cost/dozen from my 24 chickens is about $3.75 if I put them in a free recycled carton. It’s over $5 if I have to use a new carton. If you’re getting eggs from a small farmer give them at least $6/dozen no matter what they’re asking.

Birds have gotten expensive, feed is expensive cartons are outrageous and bedding costs are high. If you value that product and want to continue to be able to get it make it worth their while to do it and sell to you.