Setting up a new aquarium is easy. Moving an established one, on the other hand, takes a lot more foresight. Fish tanks are fragile and prone to scratching and cracking. Likewise, many fish are extremely delicate and often don’t tolerate change or stress well.
With that said, it’s not hard to learn how to pack fish tanks and aquariums for a move. It just takes some planning, elbow grease, and patience. From explaining how to transport fish tanks to what to do with the fish during the move, we’ve got you covered in this guide.
Supplies Needed to Pack Fish Tanks and Aquariums Safely
To minimize stress on your fish, it’s always best to be prepared before disassembling your aquarium. Make sure you have these supplies available and an extra person or two to help lift your tank if it’s particularly large.
- Fish nets: For catching and moving fish into smaller containers. You probably already have one of these if you keep fish.
- Siphon hose: For moving water quickly and efficiently. You probably already have one for water changes. If not, pick one up at your local fish store.
- Containers: For storing fish, water, plants, and decor. Consider using fish bags, which most fish stores can provide, or 5-gallon buckets with lids.
- Tarp: For protecting carpet from water damage. You can buy one at any hardware store.
- Protective packing material: For keeping the tank from shifting in the box. In a pinch, you can use towels or small cloths you have sitting around your home, or purchase bubble wrap and packing paper from most department stores.
- Extra cardboard: To reinforce the top of the box holding the tank. This can come from any old box.
- Box or crate: To store the tank and protect it from scratching. If you still have it, use the box the aquarium initially came in for a good fit.
Step-By-Step Guide for Packing Fish Tanks and Aquariums
Since fish are delicate, your aquarium should be one of the last things you pack and move, and one of the first things you reassemble in your new home. If you’re moving with fish tanks or aquariums locally, try to get everything done within the same handful of hours to minimize stress.
1. Preparing the Tank
Stop feeding your fish 24 to 48 hours before moving. Since your fish will be in smaller containers during transportation, fasting them reduces their waste output.
On moving day, disconnect all the electrical components, including heaters, filters, and lights. Surround your working area with a tarp, especially if your aquarium is in a room with carpet, and gather all your supplies.
2. Packing Fish and Plants
Transferring your fish and live plants should be a top priority. Determine whether your fish can be transported together or if you need to separate aggressive species. Also, choose an adequate container to move your fish.
For local moves and smaller fish and plants, a bag is probably fine. However, 5-gallon buckets may be necessary for larger fish, those with sharp fins, or large quantities of fish.
“You might be able to move a small aquarium (10 gallons or smaller) with some water remaining, but it’s generally not recommended. The sloshing of water as you move the tank can put additional strain on the seals, increasing the risk of damage.”
Make sure your fish have enough room to swim around. If they’re in a bag, fill it about one-third full with water, leaving the rest of the space filled with air. Use your current aquarium water to fill the containers.
If you’re transporting your fish in bags, consider placing them in a dark cooler with individual bags wrapped in bubble wrap to keep them from shifting around too much.
If you have to transport your fish for longer than a few hours, it can get complicated. Contact your local fish store for advice on how to keep fish safe for longer periods.
3. Removing and Storing Water
Before you can move your aquarium, it needs to be completely emptied. But don’t dump your aquarium water! It’s recommended to move 75% to 80% of the existing water if possible. Most people choose 5-gallon buckets to store aquarium water because they are readily available and easy to carry. Use a siphon to fill buckets, then seal them with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Packing Accessories and Substrate
Remove any decorations and place them in buckets. Since they may be waterlogged or leak, keeping them in buckets helps minimize the mess. Alternatively, you can wash and dry them, then pack them in boxes.
Put the substrate in a 5-gallon bucket to avoid a watery mess. You may need more than one, depending on the size of your tank.
Pack electronics like heaters and pumps carefully, wrapping them in bubble wrap to prevent damage.
5. Cushioning and Boxing the Tank
Once the tank is completely empty, dry it with towels, then wrap the exterior with bubble wrap. Choose a durable box or crate large enough to accommodate the tank standing upright—they’re not meant to be placed on their sides. Carefully move the tank into the container, then pack the gaps between the tank and the container with paper.
“Since fish are delicate, your aquarium should be one of the last things you pack and move, and one of the first things you reassemble in your new home.”
Don’t worry about packing the inside of the tank—it’s a waste, especially for larger aquariums. Instead, place a large piece of cardboard over the top, then add more packing paper or bubble wrap between that layer and the top of the box.
6. Label and Transport
Label the box as fragile and include arrows on all sides that indicate which side is up. You don’t want the tank handled roughly, flipped, or turned too much during transportation.
How to Transport Fish Tanks and Aquariums Safely
Aquariums are fragile, but they absolutely can be moved safely. Keep these tips in mind:
- Consider using a dolly or moving straps to move larger tanks.
- Avoid putting anything heavy on top of the tank during transportation.
- Keep the substrate and filter media wet during transportation to preserve as many beneficial bacteria as possible. This helps keep the fish healthy once you reassemble the tank.
- For long-distance moves, you may need battery-operated air pumps to keep your fish oxygenated.
Unpacking and Reassembling Fish Tanks and Aquariums
Reassembling your aquarium is similar to putting it together for the first time:
- Set the tank in its permanent location, ensuring it’s level.
- Add the substrate back in.
- Fill the tank with any water you kept, then top it off with tap water. Remember, if you’re filling it with mostly new water, you’ll need to condition and cycle the tank and watch your water parameters closely.
- Add plants and decor.
- Hook up heaters, filtration, lighting, and any other accessories.
- Acclimate your fish and release them into the tank.
Learn more on our How to Pack Hub.
FAQs About Moving Fish Tanks and Aquariums
What if I Have an Extra-Large Aquarium?
Larger, heavier aquariums take more planning and preparation to move. They may also require special equipment, such as a dolly or the assistance of several people to lift.
Can You Move Fish Tanks With Water in Them?
You might be able to move a small aquarium (10 gallons or smaller) with some water remaining, but it’s generally not recommended. The sloshing of water as you move the tank can put additional strain on the seals, increasing the risk of damage. Plus, as the water shifts, it can throw off your balance, making it harder to move the container the aquarium is in.
Can Professionals Help Move an Aquarium?
Some moving companies may have professionals with experience moving aquariums. However, many aquarium keepers prefer to move their tanks themselves to make absolutely sure no damage occurs and to protect their fish.