Pool tables are an easy way to add a little fun and excitement into any space. Despite all of the great memories that a pool table can help you make, in the case that you need to move, it can be difficult to find the best way to move such a large and heavy object.
Moving a pool table on your own could result in injury or damage to the pool table, especially if you don’t know how to do so. Instead, consider hiring a professional moving team that has the experience to safely and effectively move your pool table into your new space. We’ve outlined the six steps to take for a successful pool table move.
Supplies and Tools for Moving a Pool Table
Once you know that you’ll need to transport your pool table, you’ll want to start by collecting the right supplies. Before you reach for the supplies, make sure to disassemble your table as it will be significantly easier to carry out of your home and onto your moving truck.
Here are the tools you’ll need to take apart and transfer the table:
- Measuring tape
- Power drill
- Dollies or moving carts
- Flathead screwdriver
- Level
- Cutting tools such as snips
- Socket wrench
- Staple remover or puller
- Bubble wrap or moving blankets to protect the pool table
Once you have the above tools, you’ll be ready to continue with moving a pool table.
#1. Carefully Plan the Pool Table Transportation
Now that you’ve collected the right tools to take apart the table, you’ll want to put some thought into whether or not you want to keep it in the first place. While hauling it to a new space is completely doable, it might not be the best course of action if you didn’t get a ton of use out of it beforehand.
If you do decide that you want to keep the table, make sure to consider how you’ll be getting it out of your home. Is there a staircase or elevator that you need to take into consideration? Are there tight or narrow door frames that could make the move that much more challenging?
#2. Take the Measurements
As we hinted at above, it’s important to make sure that you have enough space to move the table out of your home without causing damage. Make sure to take measurements beforehand so you know for certain that you’ll be able to get the pool table out without causing damage. Use your measuring tape to measure the stairway, doorways, hallways, or any other spaces through which your pool table will need to travel.
Moving pool tables should always start with taking measurements regardless of whether you’re moving the table out of your home entirely or simply into another room in the same home. Of course, it’s also important to check that your new space will be able to fit the table.
#3. Begin the Pool Table Disassembly (If Needed)
Once you have taken the measurements, you can start taking apart the pool table. This will make it significantly easier to transport it into your new space. While it is possible to move a pool table without taking it apart, it’s best practice to disassemble it beforehand. Keeping it intact is only ideal for moving it short distances.
Here are some parts that you will need to disassemble:
- Table legs
- Felt
- Slate
- Rails
Always turn to the manufacturer’s instructions for disassembly to avoid causing damage to the pool table. If you can’t locate the instructions, simply look them up online.
#4. Remove the Main Parts and Legs of a Pool Table
The next step in how to move a pool table is to remove the main parts and legs. The ball pockets are usually attached to the table frame with staples or screws. This is the point where you’ll want to reach for your staple remover or screwdriver to remove the fasteners without causing damage to the material.
Once the side pockets are removed, you’ll want to use the socket wrench to remove the side rail bolts. As an added tip, place the side pockets and rails in labeled plastic bags to make it easy to reassemble the pool table.
Removing the felt comes next. This is where you’ll want to use your staple remover, but make sure to avoid causing any damage. From there, you’ll have access to the pool table slate. To remove it, take out the screws with your power drill. Then, you’ll be able to lift the slate and lean it against the table.
#5. Prepare and Pack Pool Table Parts
Once all of the parts are separated, make sure to pack and protect each item. The last thing you want when moving a slate pool table is to cause damage during the moving process. Use packing paper to carefully wrap each drop pocket of the pool table. In the case that you still have the original box of balls, feel free to place them inside.
Use a labeled cardboard box to hold your pool triangle, chalk, and other accessories. Feel free to wrap fragile items in packing paper to avoid causing damage within the box. Use thick furniture blankets to cover the larger items including the rails, legs, slates, and frame pieces. Anyway, you can always trust professional movers from Alliance Moving & Storage and rely on our packing and unpacking services.
#6. Reassemble and Level the Pool Table
Once you’ve arrived at your new space, you’ll likely want to hire specialists who can reassemble your pool table. This is the least stressful option unless you have experience putting pool tables back together.
While the reassembly process happens, the final step is to level the slates and install a new liner. Floors aren’t always perfectly even, so getting it as level as possible can help keep the balls in their respective positions. If you’re doing this on your own, feel free to use a standard level and use the screws to make adjustments to the slates. Always be extra careful with the liner!
Play Ball!
That’s it! Moving a billiard table on your own is daunting but it can be achieved if you have the right tools and some extra hands for help. If you’d rather avoid the stress altogether and instead hire a professional moving team, you’re in the right place.
At Alliance Moving & Storage, we have extensive experience safely moving pool tables throughout Chicago and surrounding areas. Our team will treat your table with care and ensure that it arrives in your new space without any damage. If you’re interested in learning more about our services or you want a pool table movers quote, reach out to us today!
.jpg)