Packages and queens: Where to you order from?

[Stone]

Just taking some suggestions regarding you experiences with who to order packages and queens from.  I'd like to do some research for next spring so I can hit the ground running. Thanks!

[AllenF]

The Wilbanks Apiaries and Hardeman Apiaries are where I have ordered the most from.   

[BjornBee]

First, contact the local guys in the clubs who may be bringing bees from down south. I have found that the guys bringing up bees at least allows you to not have them sent through the mail.

Other than that, I find most packages about the same. Your choice is Italian. There are a few exceptions like Hardemans who has Russian hybrids, and they are a good bunch to work with.

I would also suggest looking locally produced nucs in your area.

You didn't say what your looking for , other than your looking. So what do you want? A special type bee? A special time frame?

If you look too long, you will miss out getting any bees. They sell out most years. If you just want a package, and like thousands of others, settle for what is coming up on trucks, then the questions mean little. It comes down to whether you get them or not.

And if you do order through the mail, please understand that small first time orders are at the bottom of the feeding bucket. And those are the orders that EVERY year seems to gets delayed, pushed back, or even cancelled.

[Stone]

Bjorn,
Thanks for your advice. Leaning towards Carnies or Italians.  Good idea to contact the local clubs.  I'll look into that.

[Wynoochee_newbee_guy]

look local best advice. shipping costs are awful.

[BjornBee]

Bjorn,
Thanks for your advice. Leaning towards Carnies or Italians.  Good idea to contact the local clubs.  I'll look into that.

If you can't find anything local, check out my website. www.bjornapiaries.com

[TwT]

since your in New York, check with Robo! he could help you onw way or another, maybe!