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Hive Load Planner

Commercial beekeepers move hives on flatbed trucks and semi-trailers. A standard 48-foot flatbed carries 408-480 hives (4-way pallets stacked 2 high). Weight limits vary by state but generally cap at 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight. This planner helps you calculate load configurations, verify weight compliance, and estimate fuel and transport costs.

Plan Your Hive Load

Typical: 150-250 lbs depending on honey stores and supers

Load Summary

Pallet Capacity48 pallets (2 tiers)
Max Hives (by space)192

Hive Weight34,560 lbs
Pallet Weight2,160 lbs
Truck + Trailer35,000 lbs
Gross Weight71,720 / 80,000 lbs

Actual Hives Per Load192

Transport Cost (round trip)

Fuel (291 gal)$1236
Cost Per Hive$6.44

DOT limit: 80,000 lbs GVWR. Fuel estimated at 5.5 MPG loaded semi. Always weigh your loaded truck to verify compliance. CDL required for GVWR over 26,001 lbs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A standard 48-foot flatbed trailer carries 408-480 hives when loaded on 4-way pallets (4 hives per pallet) stacked 2 high. A 53-foot trailer can carry up to 520 hives. Exact count depends on hive configuration, super count, and pallet dimensions.

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