Frames that shift during transport kill bees and destroy comb. Securing devices hold them in place.

Why it is necessary

On the road, loose frames move back and forth. The result:

• Bees crushed between frames
• Comb torn or collapsed
• The queen may be killed
• Honey running from damaged comb

With a full super the weight is considerable; fresh comb breaks most easily.

The devices

• Spacers on the frame lug: Hold frames at a fixed distance and prevent lateral movement
• Wedges or filler blocks: Fill the empty space at the side
• A clamping bar across the top bars
• Straps around the boxes; these hold the whole together but not the frames within

The direction of travel

Place hives with the frames in the direction of travel. The comb then swings less under braking and acceleration than when set crosswise.

Empty space

A box that is not full is the greatest risk. Fill the space or use a smaller box — a half-filled box lets the frames slide across the full width.

Built-in spacers

Some frame types have fixed spacers in the lug. They keep bee space constant and speed up the work, but they collect propolis and need regular scraping.

Ventilation comes first

However well the frames are secured: overheating is the commonest cause of loss in transport.

Use a mesh cover, keep the open floor open, and do not stand still with a covered load.

On arrival

Securing devices are removed once the hives are in place; they do not belong in use where they hinder the work.