Moving an aquarium is no easy business. It is not an everyday job even for the experienced movers. However, they do know how to execute this task properly. If you are up for trying to move this small piece of lake or sea on your own, there are certain things to think of. For one, the goal is to keep your fish alive and well, and it’s not as easy as it may seem. Everything else comes second, but should not be neglected. So, let’s see how you ought to move an aquarium in a correct manner.
Important notes
Before we dive in and get to the actual work, there are a few important notes. After going through them, you might want to reconsider if you still want to take care of it on your own or hire movers Hackensack.
1. Fish differ greatly
Not the biggest shocker, but it is important noting. Freshwater fish, although very graceful, are also rather delicate and sensitive to the smallest changes. A move means that they will spend a certain amount of time outside of their comfort zone, which is crucial to their health. Changing several containers during this period can make them quite stressed. This kind of distress can harden the fishes’ adaptation to their new surrounding. Some have refused to eat, while a certain number failed to even make it to their new home. If you want to move an aquarium but it is not imperative, it might be smart to reconsider.
2. Fish tank and army tank share but a name
To move an aquarium properly means that you know what you are dealing with. Fish tanks are designed to rest on a flat surface, without much stress added to it. Glass walls are usually held together by glue. These structures require special kind of attention when being moved. You need to secure them and make sure that they are not exposed to any kind of pressure or irregular vibrations. If you are still questioning your decision, maybe moving quotes NJ can push you in the right direction.
3. Time is of the essence
The less time your fish spend in transit, the greater their chance of survival is. Have this in mind when planning your packing and moving schedule. Your aquarium should be one of if not the very last thing you pack, as well as among the first to unpack.
4. Where would you like to move an aquarium
If you are up for a long distance move, and by your judgment, the chances of your fish making it are rather slim, there are two options:
- you can gift your fish to a friend that owns an aquarium. Move your fish tank alone to the new place, and get some new fish.
- leave the fish along with the aquarium, and purchase new ones when you get to your new home.
The needed equipment
You cannot just drain the water, put your fish in a cup and move. That is, you can, but the result will not make you happy. What you need to make this project work are:
- Buckets and lids. A 5-gallon bucket should suffice. Make sure that both it and the lid are clean and leak-proof. The number of buckets depends on the size of your fish tank. Note that the majority of the water will come with you, having that it takes a substantial amount of time to filter a full aquarium of water.
- Bags for the fish. These are the same ones they came in from the pet store. You could go there and ask them for the bags. This way you can be sure that they are durable and free of any harmful residue.
- Supplies for aquarium gear. If you plan on carrying a pump, heater, nets, extra gravel, and other accessories with you, they ought to be packed in proper boxes. Handle them with care and keep them clean, so that instant use is possible.
The move itself
Now is time for action. You will first catch the fish with a net and place them in an adequate and previously prepared container. After you’ve finished, proceed with removing the decoration and accessories. These will include everything from plants, rocks, and castles, all the way to the pumps, tubes, light fixtures, heaters and filters. You can now drain the tank. Try to take out all the water from it, since anything left exposes the aquarium to the possibility of damage. If there is any sand or gravel on its bottom, take that out as well. Keep it in a spare bucket, ready for the unload after the relocation is over. Now that your fish tank is completely empty, wrap it in as much bubble wrap as you can. Additionally, we suggest that you wrap it in moving blankets, to make it extra safe for the trip. Remember to keep your tank as flat as possible during the relocation.
The unpacking
Once you get to your new home, try to tend to the aquarium first. Find the best place in the house for it. Make sure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight as well as easy access to electricity. A flat surface is paramount. After you’ve removed the protective materials, proceed with pouring the sand into the tank. Next, come the accessories and decoration. Remember not to turn anything on until the water is in the aquarium. Start pouring the water gradually. After a certain amount, it’s time to put the fish back. Pour the remaining water, and fill the rest with tap water that’s already been de-chlorinated. Heaters should be turned on after a couple of hours. This is done so that the water can get to the same temperature as the room.
If you have any additional concerns, do not restrain to speak with a local pet shop workers about the state of your fish. Other than that, you have now successfully managed to move an aquarium. Good for you!