Need to know how to move a pool table? If you’re the proud owner of a pool table and are moving house, that’s a question you’ll no doubt be asking yourself. While pool tables may be very entertaining to play with, it’s not nearly so fun trying to move them!
Moving a pool or billiard table requires careful planning and proper execution. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential moving steps, plus supplies you’ll need, and help you decide whether to tackle the job yourself or hire in professional removalists.
Supplies You’ll Need To Move A Pool Table
Moving a pool (or billiard) table isn’t a one-person job. You’ll need a team of at least four individuals to safely and efficiently move this heavy piece of furniture, and you’ll need to disassemble, reassemble and re-level the table. To do that, you’ll need the following supplies:
Dolly or hand truck: A dolly with rubber wheels will help in lifting and moving the heavy table.
Staple remover, screwdrivers and socket wrenches: You’ll need these tools to disassemble and reassemble the table.
Moving blankets and bubble wrap: These will protect the surface of the table and parts during the move.
Stretch wrap, packing Tape or moving straps: Used to secure blankets or bubble wrap around the parts.
Tie-down straps: To secure the parts within the moving vehicle.
Measuring tape: To ensure the table fits through doorways and hallways without issues.
Leveling tool: To ensure the table is leveled once re-assembled.
You’ll also need a suitable vehicle to transport your pool table. Due to the size and weight of the table, you’ll need to use a ute or small truck. A moving truck with a ramp is preferable, so that the table can be wheeled up on a dolly.
Step by Step Instructions On How to Move a Pool Table
- Check the path you’ll be taking.
Measure the dimensions of the pool table, along with the dolly you’ll be using, and check that these will fit through all doors and entrance-ways. Take note of corners and stairs on the route and make sure you have enough people on hand to navigate these. Consider protecting walls and doorways with baby-proof bumpers or towels.
- Disassemble the table.
Remove the pockets, rails, and felt from the table. This will require the use of your staple remover and/or screwdriver, and the socket wrench. Label or take pictures of the parts for easy reassembly.
Remove the Slate. This is the heaviest part of the pool table, so make sure you have plenty of hands available. Carefully unscrew it from the frame and wrap it in moving blankets, using packing tape, straps or stretch wrap to secure.
Wrap the legs and frame in moving blankets or bubble wrap and secure them with tape, stretch wrap or moving straps.
- Load the parts into your vehicle
Use a dolly to transport the larger components into your moving truck. Ensure that the slate is handled with extreme care due to its weight. Make sure all parts are secured within the vehicle, using tie-down straps.
- Transport Safely.
Drive cautiously to prevent any jostling or movement of the table parts. Potholes and sudden stops could damage the delicate components.
What to Do After Moving A Pool Table
Once you’ve safely transported the pool table to its new location, you’ll need to ensure its stability and evenness, by doing the following:
- Reassemble carefully, following your photos or labeling from disassembly.
- Adjust the table legs and check with a leveling tool to ensure the table is perfectly level.
- Make sure all screws, bolts, and nuts are properly tightened to ensure the table’s stability during play.
Should You Do It Yourself or Hire Professionals To Move A Pool Table?
Moving a pool table yourself may appeal as a way to save money when moving house, though you’ll need to think about the possible cost of hiring a small truck. It’s important to also consider the potential risks involved with moving a heavy, awkward piece of furniture, and only attempt it if you have enough help and the right supplies on hand. Also think about how comfortable you are with performing disassembly and reassembly, and with driving a hired truck if that is necessary.
A professional pool table removalist will take care of disassembly, packing, transport and reassembly, and will be able to navigate trickier pathways than you may be able to handle. They will be able to offer a smooth and safe move, minimising the risk of damage to the table and your property.
How To Move A Pool Table – In Conclusion
Moving a pool table is quite a task, requiring the right supplies, a dedicated team, an appropriate vehicle and careful planning. If you would like to tackle the job yourself, remember to prioritise safety, plan ahead, and take your time during the process. Be sure to finish with careful reassembly and levelling of the table, so that you can enjoy many more hours of pool or billiards in your new home.
Wondering how to move a pool or billiard table in Melbourne with the minimum of fuss? Call Pinder Tower Movers, who offer specialist pool and billiard table removals, backed by 40 years of experience helping clients move house.