Preparing a fish tank for relocation

Preparing a fish tank for relocation is something you will have to dedicate time and patience to. More importantly, as the nature of the tank itself is quite fragile, you will have to take all the precautionary measures. Damaging or breaking the tank will not only create financial issues but can also induce high levels of stress. The task of moving this fish tank will surely be a difficult one. However, with a little help from movers Nevada and a lot of careful approaching, you can make it work. Today we will show you what you need to do and how you should approach this process to minimize the chances of your tank breaking.

What you need to do when preparing a fish tank for relocation

Owning a fish tank means you have to pay more attention when walking around or near it. Now, moving a fish tank is almost the same, but with a higher level of caution. Anyone who owns a fish tank knows just how fragile they are, as well as the fish who live inside it. However, sometimes we have to move. When we move, we want to take our belongings with us.

a fish swimming in a tank before preparing a fish tank for relocation
Packing a fish tank is a delicate process as you will have to take care of the fish as well as the glass

Although this process might be difficult, that does not mean it is impossible. If you want, you can hire movers in Pahrump NV to help you relocate your belongings. However, not all movers are experts when it comes to moving such a delicate item as a fish tank.

  • First and foremost – prepare the fish for moving
  • Drain the water out of the tank
  • Pack all of the equipment
  • Carefully disassemble the tank
  • If you are unsure, hire movers with experience

Prepare the fish for moving

Before you start packing the tank you have to ensure that the fishes are safe and sound. To do so, you will need to drain some water out of the tank for fish to travel in. However, pay attention to what type of water you use for your fishes. Less sensitive freshwater fishes can be in both tank and distilled water. On the other hand, use salt water for marine aquarium fishes. The best way to transport fish is by using plastic bags. Make sure you leave enough air in the bags before you tie them. Also, if you have any aggressive fishes – separate them from the peaceful ones to ensure their safety.

Drain the water out of the tank

Use buckets large enough to hold the water you are about to drain. If you are using saltwater, try to bring it with you. This will reduce the time you have to spend searching for new water. Additionally, it will reduce the time you have to wait before you place your fish back into the tank. If you have other things inside the tank, like live sand or live rock, make sure they are in the water the whole time. This will help invertebrates and microorganisms living inside them safe from harm.

Pack all of the equipment when preparing a fish tank for relocation

Any type of equipment that you have, like water filters, pumps and heaters will require packing. These are essential parts of the tank. They ensure that it is clean and provides fish with everything they need to sustain their life. However, make sure you pack everything accordingly to avoid unexpected costs during or after the move.

a man putting tape over a cardboard box after he finished packing items
Wrap each part of the equipment individually to ensure its protection and place them all inside a cardboard box for extra safety

Moreover, if you are moving on shorter distances, you can pack these items and take them with you. If you are moving on longer distances, we advise you to buy new equipment as you arrive. On the other hand, depending on when was the last time you changed your filters and pumps, maybe this is the perfect opportunity to change them.

Carefully disassemble the tank

Now, we come to the tricky part. Disassembling the tank will require most of your patience and time. However, as this is the most crucial part of the process, you should take it slowly and safely. Disassemble the tank and carefully place them away. As you finish make sure you clean the tank as much as you can. This relocation is the perfect opportunity for you to clean everything. Next, wrap each side of the tank in soft material and place them somewhere where they will not move. Bear in mind that the items you wrap the glass in will probably end up wet or full of sand. So, when preparing a fish tank for relocation, use materials you do not use on regular basis or can afford to get rid of if needed.

If you are unsure, hire movers with experience

If you are unsure about protecting your fish tank properly and fear items breaking during transport, call in professional movers to help you. However, not every moving company will know how to deal with this delicate relocation. Some moving companies have more experience in different types of relocations. Go online, do your research and see what company can offer you proper service regarding this type of move.

Preparing a fish tank for relocation sometimes means buying a new tank

If your current tank is old or not big enough, your best option might be to buy a completely new tank. We understand that this is an investment of its own but sometimes it is the best choice. Especially if you had the tank for a longer period of time.

a woman smiling at the camera as she is looking at fish tanks
If you have an old fish tank, use this relocation as an opportunity to buy your pets a new, better home

If that is the case, simply discard the old tank, pack the fishes properly and buy the new tank as soon as possible. However, do not wait for too long. Your fishes can survive in plastic bags, but not for a longer period of time. They will require air and the bag has a limited amount of it. So, as soon as you arrive in your new home, head out and buy a new tank for them.

Latest Posts