Moving Fish to New Home

When moving to a new place, you have a lot to remember, especially when caring for pets. Planning the best way to transfer fish and their aquariums can make a move safer for your fish and less stressful for you. This guide will teach you what you should do with fish when you move house.

Collect Supplies

Moving your fish tanks means emptying the water, fish, plants and decorations inside. To do that, you'll need a few supplies, like:

• Buckets or plastic bags to hold fish
• Buckets for plants
• Packing supplies like duct tape, bubble wrap, packing paper and boxes
• A fish net
• A siphon hose for removing tank water

Transfer the Fish

Once you have all the supplies ready and it's almost moving day, remove the fish from the tank. Stop feeding them about 24 to 48 hours before the move so any waste passes through them before they go into containers. Wait to transfer your fish until the last minute to reduce the stress they experience. 

Use water from their tank and leave air at the top of the container to create a comfortable moving environment. When moving a fish tank long distance, you will want to use larger containers rather than bags. 

Prepare the Tank

Once the fish are packed away, you can take care of the tank. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Unplug the tank and place plants in buckets with tank water.
2. Remove the light, pump, heater and decor, and pack them separately.
3. Use the siphon hose to drain water, and save it in a sealed bucket to reuse when you reach your new home.
4. Wipe down and dry the tank, then pack it in a moving box with the lid wrapped separately. 

Move Everything

When planning how to move with fish, transport the fish and tank in your vehicle if possible to keep them safe. Pack everything securely and right-side-up to prevent damage to the tank or stress to the fish. When using movers, tell them about the tanks and fish for safer moving.

Once you reach your new home, unpack your fish and supplies first. Place the tank in the room you plan to keep it in to prevent moving it again. Place all equipment back in the tank and ensure the water is safe for the fish before putting them in the tank. 

SK Builders Can Help You Find a New Home

There's a lot to consider when you move, but SK Builders can find or build the perfect home for you and your pets in South Carolina. Explore available homes online.