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You can move a bee hive, with bees, almost anyway imaginable. Some ways, of course, are easier and safer than others.Commercial operations need the economy of size and efficiency. A large, flat bed truck serves that purpose. Some come with a flatbed trailer that attaches to the truck to increase efficiency. These trucks usually have customized tie-downs,tool boxes and equipment storage areas. Getting the bees on and off the truck can be done by hand (muscle) or machine. Regular two wheel carts, sized to hold hives are often used. Motorized carts are common, as are booms and tommy-lifts. Fastest are fork-lifts. There are several models available, from the standard, such as this one here, to large, specially designed models especially for standard bee pallets. Some have cabs, most have protective cages and large tires to move easily in muddy conditions. Some can swivel or pivot in the center. Once loaded on the truck bed (many are built to hold exactly the pallets used) tie downs range from regular rope, self-tightening straps, wide canvas belts to wooden frames for extra security. Nets are always in order. Some beekeepers close colonies when moving, while others leave them open under the nets. A secure net is required a all times to avoid leaks. Anytime bees are moved the boxes should be fastened, entrances closed(except as above), the load netted and the entire load fastened to prevent shifting. |
