Pool tables are a great addition to any home, playroom, or man cave, but when it comes time to actually move one – well, that can be challenging. Pool tables can weigh up to 1,000 pounds or more, depending on the make and finish. Because they don’t bend or shift to accommodate doorways, hallways and stairs, moving a pool table requires skill and many additional sets of hands. If done right, your pool table can easily make a move across town or even across the country. If not handled properly, you could lose your costly investment in a snap. Here’s how to ensure yours arrives safely.
1. Get Several Helpers For Moving A Pool Table
When moving a pool table, chances are you’re going to need to disassemble it. Between its weight and size, leaving it intact for the move isn’t usually a good idea. Somewhere along the way, it’s not going to fit, and you’re going to wind up taking it apart in a less-than-ideal location. Usually four to six strong people are enough to successfully move a pool table.
2. Gather Your Tools
To take apart a pool table, you’re going to need a few tools, including:
- flat head screwdriver
- staple puller
- socket wrench
- power drill
It’s also essential to safely disassemble any furniture so, at minimum, be sure everyone in your group is wearing safety goggles. Accidents happen, even to professionals. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
3. Disassemble Everything
Start by removing the side pockets, and then remove each rail. You may need to flip the rails over to disassemble – if that’s the case, you’ll definitely need a buddy to jump in. After that, remove the staples from the felt very carefully. As soon as the felt is removed, your pool table is at a greater risk for in-move damage. Next, take all the screws out of the slate using your power drill and remove it fully. This is the trickiest part, as a slate can weigh hundreds of pounds on its on. Be very careful and make sure you have several people helping you during this stage of the process.
After that’s done, you can detach the frame, wrap it carefully, and load it onto your moving truck or van. Keep in mind the slightest dent or damage to this piece of your pool table could significantly change how it functions in the future.
4. Label Everything
Pool tables have dozens of pieces. Be sure you or a friend is collecting and labeling every single screw, bolt, and pocket in order to ensure the proper parts are reassembled in the proper location, and keep them in a safe place. A single screw could prevent you from properly reassembling your pool table once you arrive and often, these pieces are not readily available at any hardware store. Don’t roll the dice – label, label, label.
5. Reassemble In Your New Location
Reassembling is tricky, too. If you’ve labeled every piece properly and didn’t experience any damage in-move, you’ve definitely got a leg up. The alternative? Hire a handyman who can help put your pool table back together in its new location.
6. Hire A Moving Company
This is hands down your best bet for getting the job done. A moving company can do the heavy lifting for you and also ensure your furniture arrives safely and securely.
