How to Ship Honeybees

Mail order honey bees -- or more correctly -- Internet order honey bees, are common purchases for new beekeepers, orchard owners and people who are having trouble getting fruits and vegetables to pollinate in their home gardens. These bees usually survive the long trip well, with minimal die-offs upon arrival.

Things You'll Need

  • Strong plastic container specifically made for shipping bees
  • Long term food hydration paste or spray
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Instructions

    • 1

      Contact the shipping company of your choice to make arrangements to mail your bees. The shipping company will supply a container for shipments of live insects; or they will know where you may purchase one.

    • 2

      Spray your liquid food or apply a thin strip of the paste in one or two areas in the shipping container.

    • 3

      Collect the bees you will be shipping. Place the sedated bees in the shipping container and seal it. If the bees can escape, they will.

    • 4

      Place appropriate warning labels on the box the shipping container will be packed into and on the shipping container itself. These differ depending on the package carrier you are using. Check with your shipping company.

    • 5

      Send your bees to their new home via at home parcel pickup or by taking them in and mailing them.