The specific depths of 10-frame Langstroth boxes are standardized into three distinct categories. A Deep box (often called a hive body) measures 9 5/8 inches in depth. A Medium super measures 6 5/8 inches, and a Shallow super measures 5 11/16 inches in depth.
While the length and width of Langstroth boxes remain constant to allow for stacking, the vertical depth dictates the box's function and final weight. Deeps are generally used for the colony's brood nest, while Mediums and Shallows are preferred for honey storage to manage lifting weight.
Examining the Three Standard Depths
The 10-frame Langstroth system relies on modularity. While the external footprint (approximately 19 7/8 inches long by 16 inches wide) is uniform, the depth varies to serve specific biological and ergonomic needs.
The Deep Box (Hive Body)
The Deep box is the largest standard size, measuring 9 5/8 inches deep.
Because of its large volume, it is predominantly used as the "brood chamber"—the bottom-most section of the hive where the queen lays eggs and the colony raises larvae.
The Medium Super
The Medium box measures 6 5/8 inches deep.
This size offers a balance between volume and weight. It is highly versatile; beekeepers use it for honey storage supers, but it can also be used for brood chambers in apiaries that wish to standardize on a single equipment size.
The Shallow Super
The Shallow box is the smallest common unit, measuring 5 11/16 inches deep.
These boxes are almost exclusively used as "honey supers" placed at the top of the hive. Their reduced depth limits the amount of honey they can hold, keeping the total weight manageable for the beekeeper during harvest.
Why Depth Matters: Standardization and Function
Understanding these specific measurements helps explain how the modern hive functions as a unified system.
Vertical Modularity
Regardless of the depth (Deep, Medium, or Shallow), the internal length and width are standardized at 18 3/8 inches by 14 3/4 inches.
This ensures that a Shallow super can be stacked directly on top of a Deep brood box without gaps, maintaining the "bee space" required to prevent the bees from gluing the parts together.
Frame Compatibility
The depth of the box dictates the size of the frame required.
A 9 5/8 inch box requires a specific deep frame. You cannot mix frame sizes within a single box; the frame depth must match the box depth to maintain the correct internal spacing for the bees.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Choosing the right combination of box depths involves balancing the needs of the bees against the physical limitations of the beekeeper.
Weight vs. Manageability
The most critical trade-off is weight. A Deep box filled completely with honey can be exceptionally heavy (upwards of 80-90 lbs).
This is why Deeps are rarely used for honey collection. Shallows and Mediums hold less honey, making them significantly lighter and easier to lift off the hive during inspections or harvest.
Component Interchangeability
Using mixed depths creates logistical complexity.
If you use Deeps for brood and Shallows for honey, your frames are not interchangeable. You cannot move a frame of honey from a Shallow super down into a Deep brood box to feed the bees in winter. This requires careful inventory management of frames and foundation.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Select your box depths based on your physical ability to lift heavy loads and your management style.
- If your primary focus is standard tradition: Use Deep boxes for the bottom brood chambers and Shallow or Medium supers for honey.
- If your primary focus is weight management: Avoid Deep boxes entirely and use Medium boxes for both brood and honey to keep individual box weights lower.
- If your primary focus is simplicity: Standardize on a single depth (usually Mediums) so that every frame and box in your operation is interchangeable.
By matching the specific box depth to its intended function, you ensure a hive setup that is sustainable for both the colony and yourself.
Summary Table:
| Box Type | Depth (Inches) | Primary Function | Estimated Weight (Full) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deep (Hive Body) | 9 5/8" | Brood Chamber / Winter Stores | 80 - 90 lbs |
| Medium Super | 6 5/8" | Honey Storage / Versatile Brood | 50 - 60 lbs |
| Shallow Super | 5 11/16" | Honey Collection | 30 - 40 lbs |
Scale Your Apiary with HONESTBEE Precision Equipment
Maximize your honey production and operational efficiency with HONESTBEE’s professional-grade beekeeping solutions. We specialize in catering to commercial apiaries and global distributors, offering a comprehensive wholesale range of:
- High-Quality Woodware: Standardized Langstroth boxes and frames built for durability.
- Industrial Machinery: Honey-filling machines and automated hive-making equipment to streamline your workflow.
- Essential Consumables: A full spectrum of beekeeping tools and hive maintenance supplies.
- Custom Merchandise: Unique honey-themed cultural products for your retail needs.
Whether you are expanding your commercial fleet or stocking a distribution hub, HONESTBEE delivers the hardware and expertise you need to succeed. Contact us today to discuss your wholesale requirements!
Related Products
- Langstroth Bee Hives Bee Keeping Box for Beginners Beekeeping
- Langstroth Honey Bee Box Hive Boxes for Different Depths
- Professional Insulated Plastic Bee Hives
- Automatic Honey Flow Beehive 4 Frame Mini Hive for Beekeeping
- Professional In-Hive Bee Feeder HONESTBEE Frame for Beekeeping
People Also Ask
- How does the ease of access differ between 8-frame and 10-frame hives? Choose the Right Hive for Your Body
- What are the key features of the Langstroth beehive? A Guide to the Standard for Modern Beekeeping
- What are the primary technical advantages of using Langstroth beehives? Maximize Your Commercial Honey Yield
- Should a beginner try a different type of hive? Start with a Langstroth for a solid foundation.
- How does the orientation of the hive sides benefit comb construction? Ensure Straight, Movable Combs for Easier Hive Management
