Seasonal Migration Route Planning

Migratory beekeeping involves moving hives thousands of miles annually to follow pollination contracts and honey flows.

Common West Coast circuit:

Jan-Mar: California Central Valley — almond pollination

Apr-May: Pacific Northwest — apple and cherry pollination

Jun-Sep: Northern Great Plains — summer honey production

Oct-Dec: Return south for winter staging

Transport logistics:

A standard 48-foot flatbed carries 408-480 hives on pallets

Move at night when bees cluster inside

Screen and net all loads

Federal DOT limit is 80,000 lbs GVWR

CDL required for vehicles over 26,001 lbs GVWR

Cost planning: Budget $2.00-$3.50 per loaded mile. A 1,000-mile move of 480 hives costs $2,000-$3,500 for transport alone. Transport typically consumes 10-15% of gross revenue.

Permits: Each state requires health certificates and may require apiary registration. California requires AFB inspection within 12 months for almond placement.

Seasonal Migration Route Planning

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