← BlogAugust 16, 20245 min readEditorial teamDEUAENRU
For businesses
Grape and autumn harvest 2024: plan your harvest workers in time
From September the grape harvest begins, followed by apples, potatoes and pumpkins. Plan your harvest workers now and avoid bottlenecks at the peak.
When are people needed?
- From late August: early fruit varieties, grapes for Federweißer.
- September to October: main grape harvest, apples, pears, potatoes.
- October: pumpkins, late crops.
Four planning questions
- How many helpers per day? Weather and ripeness vary, so build in a 10–15% buffer.
- For how long? Many farms use short-term employment (up to three months or 70 working days per year).
- Which model? Own seasonal staff, temporary agency work or a contract for work for clearly defined services.
- Where do the helpers live? Housing close to the farm secures punctual teams.
Legal points at a glance
- Minimum wage: €12.41 gross per hour, also for piece rates.
- Working time: records are mandatory; observe maximum limits and rest periods.
- Housing: deductions only at a permitted level and transparently.
- Occupational safety: instruction on machinery, ladders, plant protection products and heat.
- Reporting duty: short-term employees must also be reported to social insurance.
Typical mistakes
- Asking too late when ripeness arrives earlier than planned.
- Housing and meals not clearly regulated.
- No shift and break planning in the heat.
Conclusion
With a buffer, clear housing and clean documentation the harvest runs smoother. Talk to us early.
FAQ
How early should I request harvest workers?
Four to eight weeks before the start, ideally right away.
Does the minimum wage apply to piece rates?
Yes, €12.41 per hour is the floor.
How long can seasonal workers be employed short-term?
Up to three months or 70 working days per year.
Must short-term employees be reported?
Yes, short-term employment must also be reported, from the start of work.
Need harvest workers?
Tell us period and number — we will come back with a proposal.
Looking for a job? Message us on Telegram @dlp_r.Telegram @dlp_r
