Expert Live Fish Transport: 425-Mile Goldfish Relocation from Weybridge to Dunbar

Fish Transport

13 Jul

Looking for a safe, stress-free way to transport live fish long distance in the UK? Here’s how ABBCO Fish Transportation relocated two 15-year-old goldfish from Weybridge, Surrey, to Dunbar, Scotland — a 425-mile journeycarried out with specialist care, DEFRA-compliant equipment, and expert handling.

The Challenge: Moving Two Goldfish 425 Miles

After 26 years in the same home, a couple relocated from Southeast England to East Lothian, taking with them their two goldfish — Honey Child and Shadow Time. These weren’t just any fish. At 15 years old, they were part of the family.

Leaving them behind wasn’t an option. But transporting live fish over a long distance isn’t as simple as popping them in a bowl. It requires the right equipment, planning, and care to ensure the fish remain healthy and safe throughout the journey.

That’s where ABBCO Fish Transportation came in.

Specialist Long-Distance Fish Transport

ABBCO provided a fully enclosed, oxygenated transport trailer, engineered specifically for safe fish transport. Our system maintains stable temperature, dissolved oxygen levels, and eliminates water agitation — all critical factors when moving fish over hundreds of miles.

Our team worked closely with the owners to prepare the fish for travel, offering guidance on:

Water chemistry matching
Feeding schedule adjustments pre-transport
Preparing the destination pond for reintroduction

This preparation helps reduce stress, avoid pH shock, and keep fish healthy throughout the move.

The Journey: Weybridge to Dunbar

The fish were transported via motorway route — M25 → M1 → A1(M) → East Lothian — in a journey lasting approximately 8 hours one way. The DFTV (Designated Fish Transport Vehicle) was clearly marked with “Live Fish in Transport”, and the trailer was monitored regularly for water quality and temperature.

This wasn't just a delivery — it was a specialist live animal transport operation carried out to the highest welfare standards.

Arrival at the New Pond

Upon arrival in Dunbar, Scotland, the fish were successfully introduced into their newly prepared pond. The pH, temperature, and water quality had been pre-balanced to mirror their original environment in Surrey, ensuring a smooth and safe transition.

Both goldfish adapted immediately, and their long journey north ended with a peaceful swim in their new Scottish home.

Customer Testimonial: What the Owners Said

“My wife was intent on taking our fish when we moved 400 miles north from SE England to East Lothian, as they are 15 years old and, hence, part of the family. She tracked down Morgan online and here is her verdict:

Morgan moved our fish expertly using incredible equipment. They are now happily settled in their new pond. From the outset, Morgan gave us advice on how to prepare the fish for this move and how to set up the new pond with the pH balance the fish would have been used to. He kept us well informed about the process throughout and everything happened as he said it would. He has a real passion for his work and his expertise shines through. I am now so glad that I found ABBCO and brought my fish to my new home because I wasn't sure it would be possible. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend ABBCO and Morgan, if you are considering a fish relocation!”

FAQ: Long-Distance Fish Transport in the UK

Can you move pond fish long distances?

Yes. With professional-grade, oxygenated transport tanks and the correct preparation, pond fish can be safely moved hundreds of miles.

How do you transport live fish in the UK?

Use DEFRA-compliant equipment and sealed, aerated tanks. Ensure the fish are fasted before transport, the water quality is stable, and the temperature is consistent.

How long can fish be transported for?

Fish can safely be transported for 8–12 hours or more, as long as water oxygenation, pH, and temperature are properly managed.

How much does it cost to transport fish in the UK?

Cost depends on distance, number of fish, species, and equipment needs. Contact us for a bespoke quote.

Need to Move Fish? Choose ABBCO for Safe, Expert Relocation

Whether you’re moving house, relocating a garden pond, or transporting valuable koi or goldfish, ABBCO Fish Transportation offers a fully managed, stress-free solution.

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