When and How to Buy Honeybees: Package vs. NUC for Beginner Beekeepers

So, you’re ready to start beekeeping—but how do you actually get your bees?

If you’ve done a bit of research, you’ve likely come across two common options: bee packages and nucleus colonies (nucs). Each method has its pros, and your choice depends on your goals, timing, and experience level. Here’s what you need to know.

Packaged bees that can be mailed.

📅 When to Buy honeybees

Timing matters.

• Order Early (Winter): Most beekeepers place their orders in December through February. Suppliers often sell out quickly.

• Pick-Up or Delivery (Spring): Bees are typically available March through May, depending on your location and climate.

• Best Time to Install: Plan to install your bees when daytime temperatures are consistently above 55°F (13°C) and flowers are beginning to bloom.

🛒 Where to Buy Bees

Look for:

• Local Beekeeping Associations: Great for beginners. You’ll find experienced mentors and local bee genetics suited for your climate.

• Reputable Honeybee Suppliers: If buying online or out-of-state, check reviews and confirm shipping conditions.

• Farm Supply Stores: Some partner with bee suppliers for spring delivery.

🐝 Option 1: Buying Bees in a Package

What is a Package?

A screened box containing:

• 2–3 pounds of worker bees (~10,000–12,000 bees)

• A caged queen

• A can of sugar syrup for feeding during transport

Pros:

✅ Usually cheaper

✅ More available than nucs

✅ Clean start—less chance of bringing in pests or disease

Cons:

❌ Bees and queen are not related—acceptance isn’t guaranteed

❌ Bees must build comb from scratch

❌ More fragile, especially for beginners

Best For:

• Hobbyists who want to learn from the ground up

• Beekeepers wanting to install into foundationless or top-bar hives

🐝 Option 2: Buying a Nucleus Colony (NUC)

What is a Nuc?

A small, established colony in a box containing:

• 4–5 frames with drawn comb

• A laying queen with her own bees

• Brood, honey, pollen, and a working system already in place

Pros:

✅ Faster colony growth

✅ Queen is already accepted and laying

✅ Less work for the bees (comb is built)

Cons:

❌ Higher cost

❌ Availability is limited

❌ Slightly increased risk of bringing in mites or disease

Best For:

• Beginners wanting a more turnkey solution

• Beekeepers with standard Langstroth hives

🧠 Pro Tips Before You Buy

• 📦 Know Your Hive Type: Make sure the package or nuc is compatible with your hive system.

• 🏡 Prepare the Hive Early: Have your hive set up at least a week before pickup.

• 🧼 Inspect on Arrival: Look for signs of queen activity and healthy bees.

• 📓 Keep Records: Note your source, bee type (e.g., Italian, Carniolan), and install date.

✅ Final Thoughts

If you're just starting out and want a simpler experience, a nuc offers a head start and more stability. If you’re budget-conscious and eager to learn colony building from the ground up, a package is a great teacher.

No matter which route you take, buy early, buy local if possible, and go in with a plan. The best time to buy bees is when you’re ready to take care of them—so make sure your hive, tools, and knowledge are in place.