moving a tank

[aarone]

Ok i might be moving soon. IO have had to mov my tank once, but only in the house. This move will be several miles (under 30).
The question is, if i take all the water out transport it with the fish. Would i have to take the sand out (100+ lbs)? I dont want the tank to break under stress from immense weight on glass. Would it be alright or would it kill the anaerobic bacteria if i shoveled it out and put it in a large tupperware bin?

 

[krishj39]

assuming you have a few other people that will help you move, I wouldn't take the sand out of the tank. Just take the water out until it is just above the level of the sand. If you and another person carry the tank, that's still only 75 or so for each person. Not too bad. The tank will be able to handle it. The only other thing you may want to consider is that if you keep the sand in the tank then be careful when you are driving with it, because the water and sand will slosh around very easily. Also, if you have to go up or down a lot of steps, then it might be worth moving the sand out of the tank. But, if possible, leave it in. Never good to upset the sand bed if you don't have to.

 

[wymike]

I have yet to move a tank very far. But from your initial post if it were me, I would fashion a carrier to move your tank with. If only two of you were going to move it, one at each end, the bottom may not have enough support to bear the weight of the sand while raised in a carrying fashion.
Possibly a couple of 2x6's supporting a section of plywood cut to your tanks length and width would make the move easier.
Just a thought anyway...

 

[von_rahvin]

i moved my 135 approx 75 miles. not a fun thing to do. the bottom was fine with the sand. something ot consider is trying to keep as much water as possible during the move. good luck. although next time i may build a carrier. that is a great idea. say with straps to make carriing it easier. hmmmmmmmm.