Moving an Aquarium: How to Pack and Move a Fish Tank

Essential equipment for moving a fish tank

• Fish Tank Net: Nets are needed for safely catching and transferring fish to and from containers.
• Fish Containers or Bags: You'll need something to safely transport your fish during the move, containers or bags with proper aeration are crucial.
• Clean Plastic Tubs or Buckets with Lids: Buckets are needed to hold both the old and new water; ensuring water quality is vital for the health of your fish.
• Siphon or Gravel Hose: A siphon pump for water is necessary to remove the water and to clean the gravel before moving the tank.
• Battery-operated Air Pump: Maintaining water oxygen levels in the fish containers/bags during the move is essential, especially for longer distances.
• Protective Wrapping Material: Bubble wrap or similar material is useful for wrapping the tank to avoid scratches or cracks while it's being moved.
• Saltwater Aquarium Kit: This will be vital at the end of your move if you have a Saltwater tank currently. You will want to use the kit to restabilize your water before you re-introduce your fish.

If you’re looking for an aquarium moving company to help with Local Moving Services , you can stop the search. Stewart Moving and Storage can assist with the careful moving of your delicate items.

Step-by-step Guide to Moving an Aquarium

1. Prepare Your Supplies: Before you start moving the aquarium, gather all necessary supplies listed above.
2. Stop Feeding the Fish: 24 to 48 hours before the move, stop feeding your fish to reduce waste and keep the water cleaner during transit.
3. Disconnect Electrical Components: Unplug heaters, filters, lights, and other electrical components to prevent any electrical hazards and allow them to cool down before handling.
4. Remove Fish Aquarium Accessories and Decor: Take all items out of the aquarium, and place them in buckets with aquarium water to maintain their condition.
5. Siphon Water Into Buckets: Use a siphon hose to transfer enough aquarium water into buckets to transport fish and possibly some to help reestablish the tank at the new location.
6. Transfer Fish to Buckets: Gently catch your fish with a fishnet and place them in the prepared buckets with plenty of space and aquarium water. If going a long distance, an oxygen tank for fish transport should be considered.Plan to transport the fish in your personal vehicle as they cannot be transported on a moving truck.
7. Remove Remaining Water and Substrate: After the fish have been safely moved, continue to remove the rest of the water and carefully scoop out gravel or substrate to avoid damaging the tank.
8. Protect the Empty Aquarium for Transport: Wrap the empty aquarium with blankets or use bubble wrap to protect it from scratches and cracks during the move. Mirror cartons are a great layer of protection for smaller tanks. Custom crating can be ideal for larger tanks and longer distanced relocations.
9. Set Up Your New Aquarium: To set up, start with the substrate, then slowly add accessories, fill with the transported water, and re-install the equipment. Slowly introduce your fish back into the tank by floating the buckets in the aquarium to equalize the temperature, then gradually mix in tank water to the buckets before releasing the fish.

Experts Can Assist With Moving Your Tank

If you're planning a move with your fish tank, seeking the assistance of professionals can make all the difference for a smooth transition. Professional movers are skilled in aquarium relocation and have the equipment to handle the delicate process. Whether you are needing your tank moved a short distance, and you’re in the market for an aquarium moving company with Long Distance Movers, Stewart Moving & Storage is here to help. We have the equipment necessary to safely transport your fish tank. Call us at 888-566-9737 to receive a quote and discuss how we can help with your next move.

Frequently Asked Questions