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How to Relocate Beehives

There are an estimated 2.4 million managed beehives in America as of 2010, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. If you keep bees, you may find it necessary to relocate your hives occasionally -- whether you're moving to a new home or simply rearranging your garden. Finding a sunny location for a beehive is very important, as bees become more aggressive if kept in the shade. Move the hives at night while the bees are inside the hive, according to the College of Agriculture &Environmental Sciences at the University of Georgia.

Things You'll Need

Beekeeping suit
Sheet of fine mesh
Rope
Vehicle large enough to hold a hive
Trolley

Instructions

Moving a Hive Several Miles
- 1
  Put on a beekeeping suit to protect yourself from being stung.
- 2
  Cover the entrance and the top of the hive with a sheet of fine mesh or netting. Leave the entrance door open; otherwise the bees may suffocate. If you live in a colder climate, close the hive entrance completely, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Home &Garden bulletin.
- 3
  Wrap a length of rope around the hive vertically and horizontally to prevent the internal parts from becoming misplaced.
- 4
  Lift the hive into the vehicle. If it is heavy or you are moving several hives, then ask a friend to help or use a trolley to prevent injury to yourself. Ensure the hive is secure in the back of the truck or car.
- 5
  Drive to the new location and unload the hive. Ensure the new location is several miles away; otherwise the bee colony will fly back to the original location. Make sure there is a constant supply of fresh water close to the hive, such as a river or pond.
- 6
  Place the hive in the new location. Remove the rope and mesh or netting. The hive should be out of direct wind and in the sunlight. Bees fly at a height of 3 to 6 feet, so if possible place the hive on a raised platform or near a tall fence. This forces the bees to begin their flight above head height, helping prevent the bees from annoying passers-by and neighbors.
Moving a Short Distance
- 7
  Wait until evening or nightime, and with the help of a friend gently lift the hive and place it back down a few feet from its current location.
- 8
  Leave the hive in place for a day, and allow the bees to continue their routine as normal.
- 9
  Raise the hive and move another few feet the next night. Repeat this process until you have reached your chosen destination.

Insects & Science