Moving is a big task. Packing your belongings safely and ensuring they arrive at your new destination requires careful preparation. This preparation takes on a whole new level when you have an at-home aquarium you need to move as well. To help you prepare for the important process of moving with a fish tank, follow this checklist our team at Move-tastic! in Chicago, Illinois, put together to safely get your fish to your new home.
Why Moving an Aquarium Safely Matters
Moving an aquarium properly reduces stress for your fish and ensures they arrive safely. In addition, your fish tank is a big investment, and you want it to arrive at your new home unbroken and ready to set up.
Because fish need to be in water, timing is essential for moving them out of their aquarium, into transport vessels, and then back into their tank. The environment in an aquarium is sensitive and requires a stable temperature and water quality for your fish to thrive. During the move, you’ll need to try and replicate that stable environment as much as possible for a stress-free experience for your fish.
Fish can easily feel stressed when their environment changes, such as when moving to a new tank. Stressed fish may exhibit odd behavior such as hiding, erratic swimming, loss of appetite, or change of color. Keeping the water quality and temperature stable is key to preventing excess stress.
Essential Equipment for Safely Moving an Aquarium
You’ll need a range of equipment to move your aquarium. Some you may have already, such as fish nets, but others you may need to buy from a store or online. Be sure to have everything ready before you start your move. Essential equipment includes:
- Fish nets and catch cups. Use nets to carefully scoop your fish out of their tank, and then transfer them to a catch cup temporarily before placing them in the moving container.
- Moving containers (buckets, bags, and tanks). Put your fish into these containers when you move. Fill them with water from your aquarium so the fish are already adjusted to the water quality.
- Siphon hose and water containers. The siphon hose will help you transfer water from the aquarium into the temporary container. You can then carry the remaining aquarium water in additional containers.
- Battery-powered air pumps. Keep the water oxygenated throughout the move by using a battery-powered air pump.
- Insulation materials for temperature control. Use styrofoam sheets or specialized reflective coverings to keep the moving container at the ideal temperature, especially during a heat wave or cold snap.
- Sealed boxes for accessories and decor. Protect your aquarium decorations and accessories in sealed boxes to keep them safe. Your fish will appreciate having familiar surroundings when you set up your aquarium in your new home.
A Detailed Step-By-Step Guide To Moving Your Aquarium
Now that you have your equipment, it’s time to prepare your fish and the tank for the move.
Preparing Your Fish
Stop feeding your fish 24 hours before the move. This will help reduce waste that can pollute the transport water.
Turn Off and Remove Electrical Equipment
Turn off the aquarium water heater and let it cool for about 30 minutes before packing it. Once it’s cooled, carefully wrap it in bubble wrap. Unplug lights, filters, and pumps. Make sure they’re thoroughly drained and dry before packing them.
Siphoning Water
Use the siphon hose to remove about 75% of the aquarium water. Put the siphoned water into the moving containers and any buckets or bags you’ll transport the fish in.
Catch and Secure Your Fish
Before removing decorative items, try to catch the fish first to reduce stress levels. However, if you have large items the fish want to hide behind or under, you may need to remove those items first. As soon as you catch your fish with the net, place them in the catch cup.
Handling Plants and Decorative Elements
With live plants, carefully remove them from the aquarium’s substrate and place them in water-filled bags. Secure the bag so water doesn’t leak out, and then place them in watertight containers for transport.
Emptying and Packing Aquarium Substrate
Once you’ve removed the fish, plants, and decor, siphon the remaining water out and dispose of it. Scoop out all the substrate and gravel, and without rinsing it, put it in watertight containers. Always remove all the substrate before moving the tank, even over short distances, to avoid damaging it during the move.
Properly Packing the Tank for Safe Transport
Carefully wrap the tank with as much padding and protection as possible to prevent damage during transport. For peace of mind, have a professional mover pack the tank, as they have the supplies and knowledge to pack your aquarium safely. In addition, professional movers will safely transport your fish and tank to your new home.
Reassembling and Setting Up in Your New Location
You’ll want to get your fish settled as soon as possible. Make setting up the tank a top priority. Fill it with the transported water and place the substrate, plants, and decor. Plug in the pumps, heater, and filters and let the water come to the right temperature, then slowly introduce the fish into the tank. Top off the water as needed with dechlorinated water. Closely monitor the tank’s water quality and temperature to ensure a healthy and stable environment for your fish.
Let Move-tastic! Help You and Your Fish Move to Your New Home
Moving an aquarium and your fish safely is just as important as moving precious family heirlooms. Having professional help will ensure your fish and tank arrive safe and sound. Contact our team at Move-tastic! in Chicago to consult with our moving specialists for tips on packing, moving with a fish tank, or how to move fish across country. We offer packing solutions, storage solutions, and more to help make your move as stress-free as possible.
yellow fish swimming underwater by Delbert Pagayona is licensed with Unsplash License