A pool table is one of the largest and heaviest pieces of furniture you can own. It usually measures 7 to 9 feet in length and can weigh over 700 pounds. For example, an 8-foot pool table with a slate top might weigh around 1,000 pounds. Moving a pool table without professional help requires careful planning, the right supplies and some muscle. Here’s a straightforward guide on moving a pool table to a new home, across the room or even without taking it apart.
Safety Note
Moving a pool table alone is not recommended. It can lead to injury and may damage the table.
Get Help, Tools & Supplies
Having enough help and the right tools can make moving a heavy pool table much easier. The best way to move a pool table is to take it apart first.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tools: A drill, socket wrench and screwdriver set to disassemble the table.
- Staple Remover: To carefully remove the felt from the table.
- Protective Materials: Moving blankets and bubble wrap to keep all parts safe from damage during the move.
With these supplies and a few strong helpers, moving a pool table becomes much more manageable.
Measure Doorways & Exits
Moving a pool table safely requires careful planning especially when navigating it through your home. Before you start, measure the width of doorways, hallways and staircases to make sure the pool table can fit through without causing damage.
To protect walls and edges cover any sharp corners of the pool table with towels or foam bumpers. This helps prevent scratches or chips while moving it through tight spaces.
Disassemble the Pool Table
It’s best to take apart your pool table before moving it, as these tables aren’t meant to be moved in one piece. You’ll need to remove the legs, felt, rails and slate then put them back together in the new location.
In some cases, if you have help and only need to move it a short distance (like across the room or to a nearby area) you can use furniture sliders without disassembling. But this approach is only for very short moves.
Tip
Check your pool table’s owner’s manual for step-by-step instructions on disassembly and reassembly.
Remove the Pockets & Rails
To start disassembling your pool table, first take out the ball pockets. These are usually attached with screws or staples. Use a screwdriver or staple remover to detach them. After the pockets are out, use a socket wrench to loosen and remove the bolts on the side rails. Keep the pockets and rails in a safe spot where they won’t be in the way.
Place all screws and bolts in labeled plastic bags, noting which part they belong to. This will make reassembly much easier.
Remove the Felt & Slate
To safely move a pool table without damaging the slate, start by taking off the felt. Carefully use a staple remover to detach the felt without tearing it so it can be reused.
Once the felt is off, you’ll see the slate underneath. Slate is fragile and can crack or chip easily so handle it with care. Use a drill to slowly remove the screws holding the slate to the table. Gently lift the slate and place it against a wall or lay it flat on the floor.
Slate can weigh over 450 pounds. Avoid lifting it alone to prevent injury or damage—get help to move it safely.
Remove the Legs
After removing the pockets, rails and slate the next step is to take off the table’s legs. With some help, carefully flip the table frame upside down or onto its side, making sure to keep the weight balanced to avoid damaging the legs.
Once the table is in position, use a drill to unscrew the legs from the frame. Place the legs and frame in a safe spot where they won’t be at risk of damage.
Wrap & Label Each Part
To keep your pool table parts safe from scratches or chips during the move, wrap each rail, leg and pocket with bubble wrap or protective padding. Cover the slate with moving blankets, securing the padding with packing tape or stretch wrap. Label each part so reassembly is easier. Use a dolly or hand truck to load the parts onto your moving vehicle.
Moving a Pool Table – DIY vs. Hiring Professionals
Moving a pool table on your own might save money but professional movers have the skills and experience to handle it safely. Moving a pool table yourself is a tough job. There’s a risk of dropping it, damaging the slates or getting injured. If you decide to move it yourself, safety should be the top priority.
Here are some key tips:
- Have at least 4-5 people to help.
- Use lifting straps for the heavier parts.
- Ensure everyone wears slip-resistant shoes.
- Be extra careful with the slates, as they are very heavy and can be tricky to handle.
Once everything is loaded onto the truck, secure the parts with tie-down straps to keep them in place during transit.
Moving Your Pool Table Safely
By carefully disassembling your pool table, properly protecting each part and loading it with the right support you can move it safely with some help. Gather all the tools you need to make the move easier. Chicago Movers STI offers equipment rentals for moving and lifting, so you don’t need to make a big upfront investment in supplies.
