Winter is the perfect time to move hives, especially short distances. You don't have to worry about foragers returning to the old location since they will reorientate when spring comes. I prefer ratchet straps to hive staples for moving hives. Staples not only damage the hive bodies, but they don't put any tension on pulling the boxes together, and unless you use a bunch of them, the hive will be loose. One ratchet strap is much easier and more secure.
rob...