Quick Answer
Hive weight varies enormously. An empty set of boxes may weigh a few dozen pounds, while a strong colony with several full honey boxes can weigh well over 150 pounds. A commonly cited range for a working backyard hive is roughly 80 to 300 pounds (36 to 136 kg), but your own hive depends on box size, season, and honey stores. The figures below are approximate.
Weight of Empty Equipment
A complete empty set of hive equipment (bottom board, a couple of boxes, frames and covers) is often quoted at roughly 15 to 25 pounds, though this depends on how many boxes you count and what they are made of. Pine, cedar and plastic differ, and wet or painted wood weighs more. Sizes are explained in the bee hive size guide.
Weight of Full Boxes
Approximate weights of 10-frame boxes full of capped honey:
| Box | Approximate full weight |
|---|---|
| Deep | 70 to 90 lb (32 to 41 kg) |
| Medium | 50 to 60 lb (23 to 27 kg) |
| Shallow | 30 to 40 lb (14 to 18 kg) |
A single deep frame full of capped honey is often cited at around 6 pounds. 8-frame boxes weigh proportionally less, which is why many people choose them.
Weight of the Bees
Bees themselves add little. A single worker weighs roughly 0.1 gram, and a strong colony of tens of thousands may total about 10 to 15 pounds. Most of the weight is honey, pollen, wax and wood.
Seasonal Weight Changes
Hives are lightest in late winter or early spring if stores run low and heaviest near the end of a strong nectar flow. During the flow a hive may gain several pounds in a day in good conditions, though this varies widely by region.
Weight Before Winter
Targets depend on climate and colony size. A colder climate generally needs more stored honey than a mild one. Some beekeepers in cold regions aim for a hive that feels heavy on its stand, but local advice from experienced beekeepers in your area is the best guide. If a hive is light, feeding may be needed before it gets cold. See the costs involved in what a hive costs.
Estimating Weight
- Use a hive scale or a hanging scale under one side if you want actual numbers.
- Tip the back of the hive slightly upward and compare to your other hives. This gives relative, not absolute, weight.
- Lift individual boxes during inspections.
Lifting Safely
Full deeps are heavy. Use proper lifting posture, remove supers one at a time, and ask for help if needed. Lighter boxes such as mediums are often recommended for this reason. Your hive stand and bottom board must also support the load.