Standard beehive frames come in three primary depths, each designed to fit a specific size of hive body or super.
The three standard frame sizes are 9 1/8 inches (Deep), 6 1/4 inches (Medium), and 5 3/8 inches (Shallow). These measurements are critical because the frame must match the depth of the box to ensure proper "bee space" within the hive.
The Golden Rule of Hive Hardware You must always match your frame size to your box depth. A frame is purposely designed to be slightly shorter than its corresponding box to allow bees to move freely between layers without getting crushed.
The Three Standard Frame Depths
Deep Frames (9 1/8 Inches)
These are the largest standard frames available. They are designed exclusively for the Deep Hive Body, which measures 9 5/8 inches in depth.
Because of their large surface area, these frames are most commonly used in the lower boxes of the hive. This provides the queen with ample uninterrupted space to lay eggs and raise brood.
Medium Frames (6 1/4 Inches)
Medium frames are the middle-ground option. They are sized to fit a Medium Super, which has a depth of 6 5/8 inches.
These frames are versatile. They are large enough to be used for brood in some setups but are frequently used for honey storage because they are lighter to lift than deeps.
Shallow Frames (5 3/8 Inches)
These are the shortest standard frames. They fit into a Shallow Super, which measures 5 11/16 inches deep.
Shallow frames are almost exclusively used for honey production. Their smaller size results in a significantly lighter box when full, making them ideal for beekeepers concerned with lifting heavy loads.
Understanding the "fit"
The Intentional Gap
You will notice that the frame is always shorter than the box it lives in. For example, a 9 1/8-inch frame sits in a 9 5/8-inch box.
Why the Difference Matters
This difference creates a gap at the top and bottom of the frame. This gap is essential for maintaining proper bee space.
If the frames were the same height as the box, you would crush bees every time you stacked a new box on top. The clearance allows bees to crawl across the tops of the frames safely.
Trade-offs: Weight vs. Standardization
The Weight Factor
The deeper the frame, the heavier the box will be when full. A deep box full of honey frames can weigh upwards of 80 pounds.
While deep frames are excellent for brood nests (brood is lighter than honey), using them for honey storage can be physically demanding. This is why many beekeepers transition to Medium or Shallow frames as they stack boxes higher.
Standardization vs. Specialization
Using different frame sizes requires you to manage different inventories. You cannot put a Deep frame into a Medium box; it simply won't fit.
Conversely, putting a Medium frame in a Deep box is a mistake. The bees will build "burr comb" in the empty space at the bottom, fusing the frames together and making inspections difficult.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Select your frame sizes based on what you intend the bees to do in that specific box.
- If your primary focus is Brood Rearing: Use 9 1/8 inch (Deep) frames to give the queen the maximum continuous area for laying eggs.
- If your primary focus is Honey Production: Use 6 1/4 inch (Medium) or 5 3/8 inch (Shallow) frames to keep the weight of the supers manageable during harvest.
- If your primary focus is Equipment Simplicity: Consider using 6 1/4 inch (Medium) frames for both brood and honey to standardize your gear, though this requires more boxes.
Success in beekeeping relies on ensuring every frame sits perfectly in its designated box to maintain the precise internal spacing the colony requires.
Summary Table:
| Frame Type | Frame Depth | Compatible Box Depth | Primary Use | Weight When Full |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deep | 9 1/8" | 9 5/8" (Deep Body) | Brood Rearing | Heaviest (80+ lbs) |
| Medium | 6 1/4" | 6 5/8" (Medium Super) | Brood or Honey | Moderate |
| Shallow | 5 3/8" | 5 11/16" (Shallow Super) | Honey Production | Lightest |
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