If you’ve taken a look at Part 1 of “How to move an aquarium” safely, you are already familiar with the first steps on how to prepare fish for a move. However, that’s only the beginning of actually completing the move of your aquarium. If you’ve done all of the previous tasks, it’s time to continue. Today we will discuss other key details:
How should I move an aquarium?
Since you’re probably familiar with the beginning of the process of relocating an aquarium, it’s now time to take a closer look into how you should proceed with your aquarium relocation.
Step 4: Draining the water
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.
Step 5: Packing the tank
For the aquarium to be delivered safely at the new location, you’ll need proper packing. Ensure to buy a large cardboard where you could 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;
- Fulfill the left space with crumpled packing paper to avoid any breakage or scratches;
- Label the box “delicate”.
Step 6: Load it 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.
Step 7: Receive cargo and reassemble
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 a Toronto moving company, 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
Step 8: Regulate the chemicals and warmth
Whether you refill the aquarium with the 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.
Step 9: Reacquaint your fish with the aquarium
It’s finally time for your fish to return to their normal environment! Use the net to get them out of their temporary baggies back into the aquarium. (if they are in bags, let them float in the water to regulate temperature).
Keep in mind that it’s normal for your fish to need lots of time to adapt, but watch for unusual behavior 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 behavior persists or worsens.
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 really demanding procedure, and if you don’t have any previous experience attempting this kind of moving task, it’s best you leave it to the pros. Moving an aquarium is no less difficult than moving a very heavy safe on your own, or disassembling your furniture prior to a move.
However, you can rest knowing that you can always hire Miracle Movers to help you relocate your aquarium. It’s all the same to us if you’re moving to an address near the St. Lawrence Market, or to another location. We’re here to assist you any way we can. Reach out to us today!