Steps to Safely Moving a Fish Tank

Moving with a fish tank is a difficult task for several reasons. First, it is obvious that aquariums are fragile. Secondly, the fish will have to spend time in temporary containers, which is stressful for them. The task becomes more complicated if you need to move across half the state, for example, if you are moving from SF to San Diego https://got2move.com/long-distance/san-diego-to-san-francisco/. However, if you follow a few rules, the process will be smooth. 

Moving with Fish: How to Prepare?

Preparations for tank transportation begin at least one day before departure. Follow these rules:

• Plan where the aquarium will be placed in your new home. Tank reassembling will be your first task.
• Do not feed the fish for 24 hours. This will reduce the amount of waste in the containers.
• Prepare the equipment. Siphon hose, fishnet, buckets for plants, packaging materials (tape, boxes, bubble wrap, foam). To transport small fish, you’ll need plastic bags with a strong tie or plastic containers with lids. It is better that the fish spend no more than an hour in them. If the trip is longer, prepare larger containers, such as 5-gallon plastic buckets with secure lids. 

Moving with a Fish Tank: Step by Step

Empty the aquarium and transfer the fish immediately before leaving so that it is less stressed.

1. What to Do with Fish When Moving?

Fill the containers with water from the aquarium. Using a fishnet, carefully transfer the fish, and close the container tightly. If you have bags, use a drawstring. Don’t fill the container to the brim; be sure to leave some air on top.

2. Drain the Water from the Aquarium

Moving a fish tank with water in it is dangerous. The seams of aquariums, although tight, are not designed for uneven loads. The sealant can be damaged, and leaks can only be detected over time.

So, use a siphon to drain the water into buckets and save it to fill the tank after you move. The fish will feel more comfortable in their familiar environment. Place plants in the buckets with water too.

3. Empty the Tank

Remove filters, aerators, stones, and decor. Rinse them, and wrap fragile items in paper or bubble wrap. Clean the walls of the tank with water. Never use household cleaning products as they can harm the fish.

4. Pack the Fish Tank Inside a Cardboard Box

Place foam on the bottom of the aquarium and fill the remaining space with a cloth or wrapping paper. Wrap the tank in bubble wrap and then place it in a cardboard box. There should be no free space between the glass and the walls of the box. Fill it with foam or paper so that the aquarium does not move inside the box. 

Specialists from https://got2move.com/long-distance/san-diego-to-san-francisco/ advise labeling the box “Aquarium” or “Fragile” and marking the top. 

5. Move the Fish Tank with Care

The aquarium box should be placed in the car trunk so that it doesn’t move. Secure it, for example, between two other boxes, but don’t place other items on its top.

6. Reassemble the Fish Tank as Soon as Possible

Unpack the aquarium as soon as you get to your new home. If the aquarium has experienced a temperature change, allow it to warm up or cool down to room temperature. Check for cracks or chips in the glass.

After that, do everything you did when disassembling the aquarium but in reverse order: put in the stones, plant algae, attach filters and aerators, arrange the decor, pour water, and put the fish in.

You’re done! Your tank is moved. You can return to the usual routine of feeding your fish, and be sure to keep an eye on their condition.

If you need help with moving, specialists from Got2Move will be happy to assist you. The company has 10 years of experience in short- and long-distance transportation. If necessary, you’ll be provided with an all-inclusive service: packing, transportation, and storage.