Moving Hives

[Doug Shaw]

I am moving to the Memphis area and am in need of some advice. I will be moving 3 hives which already have 3 supers each on them. Bees are expanding like crazy. Can bees be moved anytime of the year? Going 650 miles with them. Plan on loading them on my trailer at dusk and move them at night. Not sure when this will happen depends when the house sells. I have seen several blogs that show how to move them. Seems like the biggest thing is to strap them in good and tight with entrance blocked and screened top to be prevent overheating. http://www.sfbee.org/pdfs/MovingHives.pdf.

Doug

[Wally]

You need to have them inspected and a health certificate issued before crossing state lines.

[Doug Shaw]

Did not know that thanks. Would Don Hopkins be the one to contact?

[Wally]

yep....

[SmithN]

Doug,
It's best to orient the hives/frames parrallel to the road to prevent the frames swinging/rocking during the trip.
Which can crush bees and could possibly harm your queen.
(I wish you good luck with your move and hope the Memphis area is rich with nectar sources)

[Newbee Jim]

Wally is right about the inspection. However, depending upon the state, the incoming state may inspect upon arrival especially if it is just 3 hives. I have not had much luck lately contacting Don.

[Wally]

If you can't contact Don, call Will Hicks.
(336) 599-6345

Or Email...
Will.Hicks@ncagr.gov

[Doug Shaw]

Will do, still have time. Thanks Wally.

[Kurt Bower]

Have moved hives successfully every year for the past 10.
I recommend not screening the bees in and moving them at night.
The only 2 meltdowns I ever had were screened in.

Kurt

[Doug Shaw]

Kurt, Just load them, strap them down and go? I was planning on make the move at night.