How to Move a Reef Tank

Moving a reef tank is doable but it is a big task. There is a great deal of preparation and careful planning that you should do before even beginning the process of relocating your reef tank. Consider enlisting the help of a friend or two. It will make the job easier, especially if your reef tank is massive.

Things to Consider before Beginning

• The size of the tank.
• How many fish do you have?
• How much live rock and sand do you have to transport?
• How much coral do you have to contain?
• How far is the drive?
• How many friends can you count on to help?
• Where is the tank going to go in the new location?
• Make sure you have adequate power outlets.

Step 1: Preparing the Reef Tank Contents

A few days before, prepare some saltwater to fill the tank at the new location. A good measure is 20% to 30% of the tank capacity. It is advised to save much of the current saltwater that is in the tank. It is easier on the fish if they are reintroduced into the same environment or as much the same as is possible. Drain the water into clean water jugs or a trash can. Don't overfill a large trash can.

Step 2: Moving Day

Unplug the electrical components and let them cool before removing. The heaters may crack if they are moved while they are still hot, the lights and ballasts need to also cool down to be handled. In addition you will get wet and you know that electricity and water do not mix. 

Step 3: Empty Tank

Siphon the water out of the tank. Try to keep as much as possible in a clean container to put back when the tank is moved. Chase down the fish and other creatures and put them in their environmental water in small bags and put them into a cooler to maintain the water temperature and reduce shock to your fish. Follow the same process for living coral, sand, and rocks, also placing them in the cooler too. When you have all the living things out of the tank discard the rest of the water and take this opportunity to put all the rocks into the large strainer and clean them up. Once clean they can be put into a clean bucket to transport as well.

Step 4: Moving the Tank

Using your friend(s) gently move the tank onto a plank of wood larger than the tank and strong enough to carry it. Carefully move the tank to the truck, set it on a moving blanket, and secure it from moving with bungee cords or with other moving blankets.

Step 5: Setup Your Tank

Now your tank is in the new home. Put the old saltwater back into the tank, and then the bags the fish and others are in. Top off the tank with the new saltwater. Wait about 15 minutes to dump the fish and coral back into the water so their temperature is equalized. Enjoy.