Moving/Rebuilding a Reef Tank

[michika]

I would say assembled everything, put sand back in the tank, then add all the water you currently have, add in your rocks, then corals and finally fish. After that SLOWLY add in your new water if you need to.

For new water match the SG, and temp. Don't focus too much on the pH, or other parameters. You may be best off trying to use the same salt as the original owner.

I wouldn't advise more then a few hours, and even then with a portable air pump to oxygenate the water. With temporary things like this you are most concerned about temperature and oxygen saturation. I know fish get shipped in plastic bags for much longer, but I like to err on the side of caution.