How difficult is it to move a reef tank?

[daftwazzock]

I am planning my reef setup right now and something keeps nagging me in the back of my head whenever I read posts about how long it takes tanks to mature- I will probably have to move from where I live in two years. I really want to get a big tank (125 gal) as my main display but I keep thinking about how it will be really difficult to get everything moved. Any advice?

 

[FishyDP]

You could check with a local reef shop to see if they would hold your livestock. May be worth it, not easy moving a reef tank..

 

[daftwazzock]

Yeah, maybe this is really a case of my eyes being bigger than my stomach so to speak. Probably wiser to just get a modestly sized tank (or even a pair of them) that can be moved like I was originally planning

edit:

Looks like this store actually does moves for people? I think I will chat up some of my local fish stores and see if they can do this...

 

[Mastiffsrule]

I have moved more tanks than I care to remember. Worst move was from Florida to NC with the back of my suv packed with 5 gallon buckets or water, rock, livestock and equipment.

Everyone’s move is different, so difficulty is relative. It will really come down to what you are moving. I moved a 55 with a canister filter on my own in a few hours, I have a 180 reef in my living room now for over 10 years I will die before I try to move.

Look at what equipment, livestock, etc. you plan on having to move, and if you are able to take it down and set it up at the new location. Plan for things like livestock housing, transportation, re-acclimating everyone back in and having time to get it all done as quickly and safely as possible.

You can also look into someone with experience to do your move, but be careful to hire someone you can trust.

Good luck, I am sure it will be fine.