Guidelines for buying and selling nucs
These guidelines rely on the goodwill of buyers and sellers. Conwy Beekeepers puts people in touch but does not set prices or recommend suppliers.
Key points
- Demand is high but can quickly become saturated
- Reputation matters — buyers prefer trusted local suppliers
- Sell by early July or over-winter for sale the following spring
Over-wintered nucs (with a previous year’s queen) are available in May and sell quickly. They should be strong and may produce honey in year one.
Current year nucs (young queen) are typically available in June.
Raising nucs is not easy. Buyers expect good after-sales support.
General specification (6-frame nuc)
- British Standard Hoffman frames in good condition
- Six fully drawn combs (no undrawn foundation)
- At least three brood frames and two frames of stores
- Brood at all stages (eggs, larvae, sealed)
- Bees covering all frames
- Locally raised, marked laying queen (recommended)
- Seller to declare recent varroa treatment
- Seller to confirm if queen is clipped
- Inspected by Seasonal Bee Inspector before sale
- Supplied in a suitable nuc box (deposit may apply)
- Up-to-date hive record card or notes provided
Collection and transfer
- Option 1: Buyer collects and transfers later once settled
- Option 2 (preferred): Supplier delivers and transfers to hive
See How to transfer bees for guidance.
Responsibilities
- Return nuc box within agreed time
- Arrange end-of-season inspection if possible
- Resolve any issues directly between buyer and seller
- Seller should keep records of all sales
- Seller should offer agreed level of after-sales support
- Follow up after sale to ensure colony is progressing
Important
Bees should be gentle and suitable for beginners. Buyers should observe bees flying before purchase.
Seasonal Bee Inspector
Updated May 2025