We are sometimes asked to help dispose of old beekeeping equipment, often from the families of former beekeepers or from those downsizing. Reusing equipment is always preferable to leaving it unused in storage.
Conwy Beekeepers can help by advertising equipment for sale in our email newsletters or on our Facebook group. Our role is simply to put buyers and sellers in touch. We are not involved in the sale itself.
Please send pictures and a description of the items. Buyers and sellers should agree terms directly, and we welcome feedback after the sale. A donation to Conwy Beekeepers or Bees for Development is always appreciated.
Warning
We strongly advise against buying second-hand bee equipment from online auction sites. This is a common way to introduce serious diseases such as American Foulbrood. Only buy from trusted local sources.
Guide prices
As a guide, second-hand equipment in good condition is often sold for around one-third of the new price. For example, a complete National timber hive may sell for around £85.
Other options
New equipment can also represent good value. For example, Thorne’s “Bees on a Budget” National hive (around £165 in October 2021) includes frames and foundation. Buying second-quality parts during winter sales can also reduce costs.
Preparing equipment for sale
All items should be fit for purpose. Wooden hive parts should be scraped clean and blow-lamped. Old metal frame runners should be replaced.
What we do not recommend selling
- Old galvanised or tin-plated honey extractors and settling tanks (these should be recycled)
- Old frames
- Drawn combs
- Used bee suits
What sells well
- Honey extractors (stainless steel or food-grade plastic)
- Settling tanks
- Nucleus hives
- National hives
- Feeders
- Smokers, hive tools, frame showcases, skeps, books, and outgrown children’s bee suits
There is generally less demand for old WBC hive parts.
Best time to sell
The best time to sell second-hand equipment is in spring, after the winter sales have finished.
Please email the Secretary at secretary@conwybeekeepers.org.uk for more information or to provide feedback.