USPS moving guide . . .
The United States Post Office has an online "how to pack for moving" guide at http://www.usps.gov/moversnet/howtopacka2.html
Included among all the serious stuff is the following helpful hint:
Hippos
     You'll need:
          1,000-gallon tank per hippo
          1,000 gallons of water
          Crane
          1-pound sedative
          Soothing hippo music
          2 Aspirin (for you)
     How to pack:
1. Fill your tank with 800 gallons of water.  Start yesterday.  Remember, a medium-sized hippo takes up at least 200 gallons.  (Just out of curiosity, why do you have a hippo, anyway?)
2. Apply sedative.  Take two Aspirin.
3. Hold it, hold it - put the hippo in the tank, first.  Start with soothing hippo music, followed by a large winch and crane.
4. Now go relax in a hot bath before the forklift arrives.
WAIVER: We in no way advocate moving a hippo or any animal without the express advice and consent of your local vet or zoo keeper.  If you'd like advice from a veterinarian on moving with pets click here.
If you don't beleive me (And I don't blame you) go to the web site and see for yourself.  http://www.usps.gov/moversnet/howtopacka2.html