Jean-Marie - If you are looking for an answer from an American small-time beekeeper, I am happy to tell you how I handle my 12 (or so) hives. I am in the farm fields of northern Illinois. I collect from 75 to 200 pounds of honey per hive. It varies a lot by year and by hive. I use much of my honey my self and keep my family supplied. I don't often sell my honey, but do barter for produce and preserves... or what ever someone has to offer. I only produce liquid honey and extract it myself. It is strained, but not filtered. I prefer pollin, propolis and the like in my honey... at least in moderation. I think it is healthier. I use 1 and 3 pound jars as well as canning jars which I acquire from a variety of sources. I never test for water content, etc, but do mark which hive each crop comes from. I don't keep all my hives in the same location, so there is a difference in flavors. Hope this helps you. Larry Krengel Marengo, Illinois USA the home of Dr. C. C. Miller [log in to unmask]