Are you planning to transport a tank or an aquarium abroad but unsure how to proceed? Whether you’re a military historian interested in transporting armored vehicles or an aquarium owner moving your beloved fish, this guide will answer all your questions. From tank transport logistics to aquarium relocation tips, we’ll break it down step by step.
By the end of this article, you’ll have everything you need to know about moving tanks abroad, including answers to trending questions like “How fast does a tank travel?” and “How much does a tank cost?”
How Are Tanks Transported Overseas?
Transporting a tank overseas—whether we’re talking about an armored vehicle or a decorative aquarium—requires careful planning and logistics. Here’s how each is typically handled.
Military Tanks
When it comes to armored vehicles like military tanks, these massive machines are usually shipped via sea freight. They are loaded onto specialized cargo ships equipped to handle large, heavy machinery. These vehicles are secured firmly in place with heavy-duty equipment to prevent damage during transport.
Custom regulations and export permissions are strict, requiring detailed documentation. Many governments and private parties seeking to transport military tanks hire professional logistics companies with experience in handling such unique cargo.
Aquarium Tanks
For aquarium tanks, special care is necessary to avoid damaging the fragile glass structure. Tanks are often drained of water, and their components are carefully packed. They are then created to ensure they are safe from cracks or breakages during shipping.
What is a Tank Transporter?
Moving a tank often requires the use of specialized equipment, and for military tanks, a tank transporter is essential.
What Is It?
A tank transporter is a type of heavy-duty vehicle specifically designed to move military tanks over land. These powerful transporters can carry the weight of a fully loaded tank, typically over 50 tons.
How Does It Work?
The tank is securely fastened onto the flatbed of the transporter, ensuring it remains stable during transportation. Most tank transporters are attached to large trucks with immense towing capabilities.
For aquarium tanks, while it doesn’t require something as heavy-duty as a tank transporter, a large vehicle with enough space to carry the glass tank safely is necessary.
How does Air transport Tanks?
Transporting tanks—or any heavy cargo—by air is a highly specialized operation.
Military Tanks
Military tanks are transported using large cargo planes like the C-17 Globemaster or the Antonov An-124. These planes can carry extreme weights and oversized loads. Tanks are driven or hoisted into the cargo hold of the aircraft and secured tightly to prevent movement during the flight.
Aquarium Tanks
Transporting an aquarium by air is much simpler, though the glass tank must be emptied and carefully packaged to withstand turbulence. Airline cargo holds are pressurized and temperature-controlled, which also makes it possible to carry live fish if necessary.
How Do You Move a Tank (Aquarium)?
Moving an aquarium is a delicate process that requires planning and precision to keep your fish and tank safe. Follow these steps for a smooth move.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1 – Avoid feeding your fish. Avoid feeding your fish 24 hours in advance so they produce less waste during the move.
Step 2 – Turn off and remove equipment. Switch off the tank’s heater, filter, and other equipment. Remove and pack these items separately.
Step 3 – Syphon water into containers. Drain some of the existing tank water into buckets or containers to use later when refilling the tank.
Step 4 – Remove your fish. Transfer your fish into smaller containers with the saved tank water to minimize stress.
Step 5 – Remove your plants. Carefully remove and pack live plants in damp paper towels to keep them moist.
Step 6 – Remove your decor. Pack items like rocks and other decorations separately to prevent them from damaging the glass tank.
Step 7 – Syphon out the remaining water. Remove all remaining water and completely dry the tank.
Step 8 – Remove tank substrate or gravel. Scoop out any gravel or substrate into bags for easier transport and to prevent it from scratching the glass.
Once everything is packed, label all containers and boxes carefully to ensure proper reassembly when you arrive.
How Fast Does a Tank Travel?
Military tanks might be heavy, but that doesn’t mean they’re slow. Most modern battle tanks can travel at speeds of 30–40 mph (50–70 km/hr) on roads, despite weighing over 50 tons. Off-road, tanks travel slower but are designed to handle rough terrain effectively.
Aquarium tanks, on the other hand, travel much slower—carried carefully to avoid damage or spills!
How Much Does a Tank Cost?
Military Tanks
Buying a military tank can be expensive. A modern battle tank like a Leopard 2 can cost around $250,000. However, vintage tanks, such as the German Panzer IV from WWII, can cost an astonishing $2.4 to $2.6 million, depending on their condition and history.
Aquarium Tanks
Aquarium tanks are comparatively more budget-friendly. A small starter kit can cost around $50, while advanced aquariums with premium features can go up to $1,000 or more.
Traveling Abroad with Water in Your Freshwater Tank
If you’re traveling with a freshwater aquarium tank, transporting the water itself is not advised. It adds unnecessary weight and increases the risk of leaks and spills. Instead, you can safely dispose of the water and refill the tank with fresh water at your destination.
Make sure to carry de-chlorinator and water conditioning products to prepare the new water for your fish. If you’re traveling internationally, check local water quality regulations to ensure compatibility.
Your Tank Relocation Checklist
Relocating tanks, whether military or decorative, requires preparation, the right equipment, and careful handling.
- For military tanks, consult with logistics professionals to ensure compliance with regulations.
- For aquariums, give yourself plenty of time to dismantle and pack all components safely.
Moving abroad with a tank might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth and successful experience.