Relocating to a new home can be challenging, even with the help of a moving company, and especially when aquariums are involved. Though tough and durable, aquariums are made of glass, so they’re prone to breakage. To make sure you can transport it securely, it helps to have some insider advice. 

What Packing Supplies Do You Need? 

You need packing supplies that will accommodate the aquarium’s fragility and help you transport the fish as well. Gather the following items: 

• Cushion wrap 

• Packing paper 

• Insulating foam sheets 

• Duct tape 

• Siphon hose 

• Resealable plastic bags or plastic containers (for small fish) 

• New five-gallon buckets (for large fish) 

• Fishnet 

• Moving boxes 

What Should You Do With the Fish? 

Avoid feeding your fish for 24 to 48 hours before moving to reduce the odds that they’ll release urine or feces during the process. If you have small fish, scoop water from the tank and into plastic containers or double-layered resealable plastic bags, remove the fish from the water with your fishnet, and slip them into the bags or sealed containers.  

For large fish, pour tank water into the five-gallon buckets and place three or four of the fish inside each one. To prevent water from spilling out of the buckets, put strips of duct tape over the tops and around the sides. 

How Should You Drain & Set Up the Tank? 

Using the siphon hose, suck the water out of the aquarium and into the other five-gallon buckets. Again, keep them secure and closed by placing strips of duct tape on the sides and across the tops. The decorations, pump, and light can be covered in cushion wrap and packing paper before being tucked in moving boxes. Roll the filter and substrate in wet newspaper and place them in a sealed plastic container or bucket for their bacteria’s sake. 

Finally, surround and fill the tank with cushion wrap and packing paper to protect the glass. Set it inside a moving box lined with insulating foam sheets. After that, the moving company can securely load everything for you. 

Upon arriving at your new home, siphon the water in the buckets back into the tank and reinstall the filter. Once the ammonia, chlorine, pH level, and temperature are reset, it’s safe to add the fish, decorations, and substrates. If you used plastic bags to hold your fish, place the bags in the water for at least 15 minutes to become accustomed to the temperature. 

 
To get reliable assistance from a moving company in transporting your aquarium, contact Carlton Movers in Cincinnati, OH. Experienced, caring, and dedicated, they provide supplies for safely packing and loading every item and create individualized checklists to ensure your moving needs are met. Experience why they were named the best movers in the city by calling them at (513) 579-0007 or checking out their website.