Pool tables are a source of so much fun. Your family and friends love it. However, it’s not a favorite piece of furniture in the house once it needs to be relocated. Pool tables are big, bulky, often heavy, and tricky to move around, especially from one home to another. Here’s how to relocate one without a headache.

Easiest Way – Hire Movers

Sparing yourself (and the ones who would help you) the damage, possible injury, and anxiety attacks is worth the price. Hiring professional movers from Chicago does have its price but comes with the great relief of letting the pros do what they do best. If you want the moving team to relocate your pool table, you will give them information like the model of the table, if your building has an elevator, if they will have to use the stairs while carrying it around, etc. Also, the price depends on the type of relocation.

They won’t set the price the same when you are moving inside the Chicago area and when you relocate long distance. Professional movers have experience handling large, delicate, and heavy items like pool tables, making them the safest and most efficient option. They use specialized equipment such as dollies, straps, and padding to prevent damage during transport.

Movers can also disassemble and reassemble the table at your new location, ensuring it’s set up correctly. Although this service comes with a cost, it can save you significant time, effort, and the potential expense of repairing damages or injuries.

If You Want To Do It Yourself, Here’s How

If your budget doesn’t allow you to hire movers, or you are confident you can do it on your own, you should prepare for moving a pool table. First of all, you want to check what type of pool table you have – we can divide pool tables into two simple groups, slate or mechanical pool table.

  • Slate Pool Tables: These are heavier and more challenging to move because they consist of a slate playing surface, which can weigh hundreds of pounds. Slate is delicate and can crack if not handled properly.
  • Mechanical Pool Tables: These are lighter and generally easier to transport, but they still require care to avoid damage to internal mechanisms.

Once you know your table type, gather the necessary tools and materials for the job. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

  • Staple gun
  • Wrench
  • Drill
  • Screwdriver
  • Protective materials (blankets, bubble wrap)
  • Packing tape
  • Labels
  • Plastic bags for screws and small parts

Steps to Disassemble and Move Your Pool Table

  1. Remove the Felt: The felt covering the slate surface is delicate. Use a staple remover or carefully peel it off if it’s glued down. Roll it gently to prevent creases and store it in a protective tube or bag.
  2. Detach the Rails and Pockets: Unscrew the side rails and detach the pockets. Label each piece to make reassembly easier.
  3. Disassemble the Legs: Remove the legs to make the base of the table easier to transport. Ensure you secure all screws and hardware in labeled bags.
  4. Handle the Slate Carefully: For slate pool tables, disassemble the slate into separate sections if possible. Each piece can weigh up to 450 pounds, so enlist help to carry it. Protect the slate with thick moving blankets and secure it with tape to prevent damage during transport.
  5. Pack Each Part Securely: Wrap all parts, including legs, rails, and pockets, in protective materials. Use padding or bubble wrap for fragile or delicate components.
  6. Transport with a Plan: Before moving the table to the truck, ensure you have enough people to carry the heavy pieces. Use dollies to help with larger components, and avoid dragging parts to prevent damage.
  7. Reassemble at the New Location: Once at your new home, carefully reassemble the table, following your labels and instructions. Consider leveling the slate to ensure a perfectly flat playing surface.

Tips for Moving Your Pool Table Safely

  • Enlist Help: Pool tables are heavy and awkward to move, so have a team of at least three or four people to assist.
  • Measure Doorways and Hallways: Before moving, ensure the table parts will fit through doorways, staircases, and other narrow spaces in your new location.
  • Use a Moving Truck with Ample Space: Ensure the truck is large enough to accommodate the table parts without stacking them to avoid damage.
  • Re-Level the Table After Moving: Once set up in the new location, re-level the table to ensure optimal playing conditions.

When to Call Professionals

If you’re dealing with a high-end or antique pool table, or if the moving process seems overwhelming, it’s best to call professional movers. These specialists understand the intricacies of handling valuable and delicate items, ensuring your pool table arrives in perfect condition.

Conclusion

Relocating a pool table is a challenging but manageable task if you prepare properly and follow the right steps. Hiring professional movers is the safest and most convenient option, especially for heavy or complex tables. However, if you choose to move the table yourself, ensure you have the necessary tools, protective materials, and enough people to help. Whether you rely on professionals or your own efforts, taking the time to plan and execute the move carefully will ensure your pool table is ready for more fun in your new home. Best of luck with your relocation!