How do I safely move an established 4 gal tank

[Bosjill]

Hi everyone,

I’ve had a small ~4-gallon shrimp tank running continuously for about 14 years (on a shelf in my bedroom), and I’m about to move to a new place. I’ve never moved an established tank before and want to do this as safely as possible for the shrimp and the ecosystem.

A few details:
• Tank is long-established and stable
• Contains shrimp (no fish), substrate, and decor
• No recent issues—everything healthy

I’d really appreciate advice on the best way to move it. Specifically:
1. Should I keep some or all of the original water, or is that not important?
2. What’s the safest way to transport the shrimp themselves—in tank water, separate container, etc.?
3. Can I move the tank with substrate and hardscape in place, or should I break it down more?
4. Any tips to avoid cycle crashes or stress after setup at the new place?
5. The move is short (under a mile)—does that change the approach?

My goal is to preserve the biological stability as much as possible.

Thanks so much—this tank has been going for 14 years and I really don’t want to mess it up.