How to Pack and Transport Aquariums Safely in Perth
Moving house or office in Perth can be stressful, especially when fragile items like aquariums are involved. Whether you’re relocating across suburbs like Joondalup, Fremantle, or Mandurah, or planning an interstate move, transporting an aquarium requires careful planning. One wrong move could lead to cracked glass, stressed fish, or water damage—something no one wants during a big move.
That’s where professional packing services in Perth come in. Expert removalists know how to handle delicate items, ensuring your aquarium arrives in perfect condition. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to pack and transport an aquarium, whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring professional packers in Perth for a stress-free move.
1. Preparing Your Aquarium for Moving Day
Plan Ahead to Reduce Stress (Yours and Your Fish’s!)
Moving an aquarium isn’t a last-minute job. Ideally, start preparing at least a week before your move. If you’re in a rush due to a last-minute move, consider hiring removalists that pack for you to save time and avoid mistakes.
Key steps:
- Stop feeding fish 24–48 hours before moving (reduces waste in the water).
- Drain most of the water, keeping just enough to keep fish and plants moist.
- Remove decorations, plants, and equipment (pack separately in eco-friendly packing materials).
- Catch and bag fish safely using sturdy, oxygenated bags (available at pet stores).
Packing the Tank Properly
Aquarium glass is fragile, so never move it with water or gravel inside. Instead:
- Use thick moving blankets or bubble wrap to protect the tank.
- Secure the lid with tape (if removable).
- Place in a sturdy box (available from moving boxes Perth suppliers).
For larger tanks, professional fragile item packing ensures no cracks or leaks.
2. Transporting Your Aquarium Safely Across Perth
Choosing the Right Vehicle
A small aquarium might fit in your car, but larger tanks (50L+) need a professional moving van with secure straps to prevent shifting. If you’re moving from Rockingham to Canning Vale, uneven roads can jostle the tank—so padding is essential.
Pro tip:
- Keep the tank flat (never on its side).
- Avoid extreme temperatures (fish bags shouldn’t overheat or freeze).
- Drive carefully (sudden stops can damage glass).
Reassembling at Your New Home
Once you arrive, set up the aquarium before reintroducing fish:
- Rinse gravel and decorations (avoid soap).
- Refill with dechlorinated water (match the temperature to the bagged fish).
- Reintroduce fish slowly to avoid shock.
If you’re juggling an office relocation in Perth or a family move, hiring packing and unpacking services lets experts handle the aquarium while you focus on other tasks.
3. Why Hire Professional Packers for Your Aquarium Move?
While DIY packing might seem like cheap packing help in Perth, the risks often outweigh the savings. Professional packers offer:
✅ Specialised materials (non-toxic, shock-absorbent padding).
✅ Experience handling fragile items (no cracked tanks!).
✅ Time savings (perfect for busy families or commercial relocations).
✅ Insurance coverage (peace of mind if accidents happen).
Whether you’re downsizing or moving into a bigger home, letting experts manage the aquarium means one less thing to worry about.
Need Help Moving Your Aquarium in Perth?
Moving an aquarium is tricky, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our Perth-based team specialises in fragile item packing, using eco-friendly packing materials to keep your tank—and fish—safe. From last-minute moves to office relocations in Perth, we’ve got you covered.
📞 Contact us today for a free quote! Let’s make your move smooth, safe, and stress-free.