Moving fish and their aquarium probably appears to be a hard task, especially if your new place is several hours away and you’re relocating to a building without elevator access. Trips can be stressful for fish, so transferring them long distances requires special handling. You have to be more careful when dismantling and moving the fish tank to avoid causing damage to the glass. However, even though it’s a big project, with a little thought and preparation, it is possible to be successfully performed. Through prior planning and informing yourself about the important details of how to move an aquarium, you can ensure the tank arrives intact and that your aquatic friends remain happy and healthy. Luckily, Miracle Movers Toronto has vast experience with this task, so you can learn more about it in this helpful guide!
How do you move an aquarium – first steps you should take
If you’re faced with moving a large fish tank without professional assistance, you have to know the best way to tackle such a demanding task. The first step is to gather the equipment, as having the proper one can help the process go quickly and smoothly. Here is what you need:
- Net
- Siphon hose
- Plastic baggies
- Duct tape
- Insulating foam sheets
- 5-gallon buckets (use new ones or those that haven’t been in contact with chemical products)
- Paper pads
- Bubble Wrap
- Big boxes
- Packing paper
The second step is to ready the fish for the trip. Depending on how far away your new destination is, selling your fish and buying new ones once you settle in might be the easiest option you have. However, if you don’t want to leave them behind, there are things you’ll need to do to prepare the fish for relocation.
Halt their feeding 24-48 hours before to allow enough time for waste to pass (a well-fed fish can survive even two weeks without being fed). Then, choose the best mode of transportation based on the time you are travelling. Remember that no matter how close or far your new place is, the fish cannot be moved in the aquarium. Here’s how they should be transported instead:
Less than one-hour moves
If you are moving nearby, local movers Toronto advise you to place the fish in a plastic bag. First, fill a plastic bag with tank water. Then, using the net, catch one fish at a time (one fish per bag is advisable). To help reduce their stress, place the bags in a dark cooler in the car and stuff Bubble Wrap around the bags to avoid them rolling around and bursting. And, to ensure they can breathe, visit a local pet store to have pure oxygen added to the bags.
One to six-hour moves
For longer-distance moves with long distance movers Toronto, fish should travel in 5-gallon buckets. Fill the buckets about halfway with tank water, and then use the net to put 3-4 fish into the container (it is advisable to separate the hostile ones). Then, seal the buckets with airtight lids and use duct tape to prevent any spills.
Relocations that last a couple of days or weeks
For moves in Toronto that are extended, such as moving from Toronto to Vancouver, transporting fish can be challenging. Start by consulting your local pet store for advice on temporary care solutions. They can guide you on housing your fish safely while you’re in transit. Once you’ve settled in your new location, explore shipping services, including airmail options, to have your fish sent to you securely. Just make sure to choose a service experienced in handling live animals to minimize stress for your pets!
Draining the water properly
Since it’s unrealistic to move an aquarium with fish and water, moving agencies request to have the tank empty before it can be loaded. Make sure you unplug all the devices to avoid any possibility of being shocked by electricity. Afterward, place a couple of towels or some old but clean rags in order to not slip over. The best way to drain a tank is by using a siphon hose. You may find one at any retail or hardware store!
Remember to clean out the tank afterward!
Once the fish are ready, concentrate on packing the aquarium. Begin by unplugging the lights and the heater to allow them to cool down. Then, remove plants and wrap them in damp newspaper or place them in a 5-gallon bucket with tank water. After that, take out all the decorations (gravel, rocks, ornaments, etc.).
Use warm water to clean them, dry them off, and then pack them in bubble wrap or packing paper. Finally, remove the pump, light, heater, and filtration system (you should pack the filter damp to retain good bacteria). Once everything is wrapped separately and securely, pack them all in one moving carton and label them delicately. Having everything in one place will make finding and setting up easier at the new place.
Packing the tank to move an aquarium
For the aquarium to be delivered safely to the new location, you’ll need proper packing and packing supplies Toronto. Therefore, be sure to buy a large cardboard where you can place the aquarium and then follow these steps:
- Take away the lid and cover it apart in bubble wrap or packing paper, and then use paper padding to wrap it for additional security;
- From the base, lift the aquarium and place it in the carton;
- Cut an insulating foam sheet to secure the top of the tank;
- Cut pieces of the foam insulation to support the tank in the cardboard so it doesn’t move;
- Fill the left space with crumpled packing paper to avoid any breakage or scratches;
- Label the box “delicate”.
Load the aquarium with care
The way you load the aquarium in the truck can show whether or not it will be delivered to your new address in one piece. Because it’s cumbersome and breakable, you’ll want to handle it with extreme care and caution. Start by finding a helping hand to lift and carry the tank. Inside the moving truck, ensure it is placed onto a surface that is even, and that nothing is put on top.
To avoid shifting during transit, secure the box using straps or ropes. However, remember that moving an aquarium is no less difficult than moving a very heavy safe on your own, So, perhaps it’s better to hire professionals to deal with this instead!
Receive cargo and reassemble the aquarium again
Depending on the professional moving company you use, your shipment could take a couple of days up to a few weeks to get to your new place. When choosing residential movers in Toronto, keep in mind that shorter moving time means getting your fish back into their normal environment faster. And once the aquarium gets there, start reassembling it:
- Add gravel, rocks, décor and other ornaments
- Put in plant life
- Refill with water (preferably with the saved water)
- Set up the pump, light, heater, and filtration system
Regulate the chemicals and warmth
Whether you refill the aquarium with old or new water, you’ll want to keep an eye on the warmth, pH balance, chlorine level, and ammonia closely. You may be anxious to get your fish back in their normal environment, but if the conditions aren’t what they usually are, you could cause your fish harm. So, it’s best to wait and return them once you’ve normalized everything.
Start by placing the tank in a spot away from direct sunlight and busy areas. Then, add the substrate, making sure it’s spread out evenly at the bottom. Put back the decorations and equipment. You can arrange them as before or try a new layout. Fill the tank with dechlorinated water, keeping the temperature and pH levels right for your fish. After adding the water, put in the filter and heater and check that they’re working properly.
Reacquaint your fish with the aquarium
It’s finally time for your fish to return to their normal environment! However, before putting your fish back in, let the tank run for a few hours to make sure everything is stable. Float their bags on the surface of the tank for about 30 minutes, slowly adding a bit of tank water to their bags. This helps them adjust to any small changes in water temperature or chemistry.
Keep in mind that it’s normal for your fish to need lots of time to adapt, but watch for unusual behaviour like unusual swimming. This could mean there’s an ammonia level problem and you’ll want to check the filter system and adjust it. Contact the local pet shop if their behaviour persists or worsens. With some patience and care, your fish will soon be swimming happily in their new aquarium.
What are the tips for moving fish and fish tanks?
Before relocating a tank and your fish across the country, you’ll want to consider a few things:
- Select a location: Think about your new home’s layout before moving day and decide where to put the aquarium. Ensure the selected area is close to an electrical outlet, isn’t in the way of direct sunlight, and has lots of space.
- Make a photo: Consider taking a photo of the tank from different angles before dismantling it so that you know how to set everything up (especially the filtration system). Don’t forget to turn the flash off so that you don’t frighten or stress the fish.
- Prioritize the fish: The fish tank should be the last item you pack at the origin and the first thing to unpack at your new place. Your goal is to have them away from their normal habitat for the least time possible.
Who are the leading movers from Toronto to help me move my aquarium?
Moving an aquarium is a complicated and time-intensive task. If you haven’t handled this type of move before, it can quickly become overwhelming. From safely relocating the fish to packing the delicate glass and equipment, there are many steps that require careful attention. To avoid potential mistakes or harm to your aquatic pets, it’s a good idea to hire professional movers who specialize in aquarium relocation. They have the expertise and tools needed to ensure everything is transported safely and efficiently. However, you can rest knowing that you can always hire Miracle Movers to help you relocate your aquarium. To our Bradford movers, it’s all the same wherever you’re moving – we’re here to assist you in any way we can!
Post-move aquarium maintenance
After moving, it’s important to keep your aquarium in top shape. Here’s how to do it: First, change 10-20% of the water every two weeks. This keeps the water fresh and cuts down on harmful toxins. Also, clean the tank, decorations, and equipment regularly. This stops algae from growing and keeps the water healthy for your fish.
Next, check your filtration system often. It needs to work well to keep the water clean and full of oxygen. When feeding your fish, give them a balanced diet, and don’t overfeed. Too much food can pollute the water and make your fish sick. By sticking to these tips, you’ll have a beautiful and healthy aquarium in your new home!
So, now you know how to move an aquarium!
As you can see, moving an aquarium can be a challenging task, but with the right preparation and care, it can be done successfully. By following the steps outlined, from gathering equipment to post-move maintenance, you’ll ensure that your fish and their home arrive safely at your new destination. Don’t forget to plan, take your time, and prioritize the well-being of your aquatic friends throughout the process. Once you’ve settled into your new space, maintaining a healthy aquarium is key. Regular water changes, cleaning, and monitoring of your filtration system will keep your tank in excellent condition. Finally, a balanced diet for your fish and careful feeding will prevent water pollution and promote their health.
