New Beek - Long Distance Relocation of a Hive

[beek4018]

Just curious.  I'm planning on starting my forst hive this spring. I've already ordered my package, due to arrive in early April.  However, I've just discovered that we may be moving either later this year August/September, or next year.

How feasible is to move an active hive to a new location about 12-14 hours drive away, and if it is at all possible or worthwhile, what time of year is best, and how should this be done.

The other option as I get closer to the spring would be to cancel my package, and see what happens with the move. I probably won't know on the move until May at the earliest and quite possibly not until the following May (2011).

And, exciting as it may sound, no I'm not going to just wrap er' up and give it to the Allied Moving guy.  :evil:

Thanks.

-Glenn

[bassman1977]

I don't see a problem with moving them that far.  Migratory beeks do it all the time.  Make sure they have plenty of ventilation when you move them, especially if it's really hot.  Screen up the entrance and on top tie strap the hive down and you should be good.  As far as the top goes, I would screen it, maybe add some sort of wood on top to allow a gap for the ventilation but still allow the top cover to be put on to keep any elements out.

[JP]

I would move them anytime other than in extreme heat for a trip like that. As Bassman pointed out, think "ventilation".


...JP

[Michael Bush]

Just close them up after dark and move them.  The bigger issues are things like what to haul them in and how to hold them together and keep it from moving around in the truck, trunk, backseat or whatever you are hauling it in... and keeping it cool on a hot day, as mentioned...

[indypartridge]

You didn't say where you are or where you're going, but if you're crossing State lines, that's another issue. Many States require inspection certificates/permits in order to be allowed to bring bees in.

[beek4018]

Great advice, all.

Move would be from Indiana to either PA or NC.

[JP]

I would think moving a hive or two should really be no big deal. Now if you had a truckload, you're getting pulled over most likely by someone.

beek4018, please update your profile to include your location.


...JP

[manfre]

There's always the option of selling your bees before moving and starting a new hive when you are settled. That should let you recover the costs of the hive, simplify your move and allow you to purchase bees that are local to your future home.

NC has inspection requirements about any quantity of hives entering the state. I know some one who brought 2 hives from VA to NC and followed the procedures. The inspectors were described as shocked, but very appreciative that he followed the rules since it seems like many do not.

[hpm08161947]

Manfre:
   Do you know how or  where I can get a copy of NC's interstate hive inspection regulations?  I wonder what the procedure is?  I also wonder what other states have got ( in terms of disease/pests - that we already do not have - Africanised bees?).  Thanks.

[manfre]

Manfre:
   Do you know how or  where I can get a copy of NC's interstate hive inspection regulations?  I wonder what the procedure is?  I also wonder what other states have got ( in terms of disease/pests - that we already do not have - Africanised bees?).  Thanks.

The easiest way is to contact your area's inspector. http://www.ncbeekeepers.org/inspect.htm

They used to have all of the information linked from that page, but the "Apiary Services" link appears to be broken.

[BMAC]

May is a great time to move your bees.  Just load them the night before and leave around 6 or 7 the next morning for your move.  This will allow you to get in nar dark for new locatoin of bees.  You can use screen material and staple it in place of lid and on entrance.  that will give them plenty of ventalation for the trip.  Just drive as much as possible during day light/hot periods of the day and hav fun with them.