I may not be a commercial beekeeper, but I do count myself as budget-minded!
I use a device for feeding that I make from extra hive parts, scrap lumber,
and  plastic bins I bought at Lowes for $1.49 .
 
I start by adding an empty brood chamber or honey super on top of the inner
cover.  The depth doesn't matter.  I just use whatever I have lying about.
I then set the plastic storage bin on top of the inner cover in a position
that doesn't block the hole.  I add scraps of lumber to act as floats for
the bees, and pour in some sugar water.  I then cap everything with the
outer cover.
 
The bees come up through the hole in the inner cover, which  remains in its
usual place, to get to the sugar syrup.  The outer cover protects everything
from the weather.  The tub holds at least a gallon of liquid.  I can check
it or add liquid in any weather, or even in the dark, because I don't have
to disturb the hive.
 
If anyone wants to try my idea please follow the concept, rather than any
particular dimensions.  I've been using this method for a couple of years
now, with good results.
 
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Matthew <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: February 09, 1999 4:57 PM
Subject: Feeding new packages on a semi-commercial scale
 
 
>Hi all,
>
>Since there are a bunch of commercial beekeepers out there I thought I'd
>ask them how you feed your package bees once they arrive?
>
>We'll be starting sixty 3# packages this coming end-of-April.   Since
>I'm joining the ranks for the 'budget-minded' beekeepers I'd like to
>keep the cost appropriate (i.e. use corn syrup?  bulk-sugar?  Where do
>you buy 3000 lbs of sugar?  How do you feed in mass?).
>
>Ordinarily I've used top feeders (found these extremely efficient) but I
>think I'll have trouble finding sixty 1-gallon glass containers or
>similar - so I'm guessing people will tell me to use the frame-type of
>feeders to get these bees started.???
>
>Thanks for your advice, as always.
>
>Matthew Westall - Castle Rock, Co