Table of Contents
6 Tips from Moving Experts on How to Move a Pool Table
- Assess the Pool Table
- Gather the Right Tools and Supplies
- Disassemble The Pool Table
- Move the Components Carefully
- Consider Hiring Professional Movers
- Final Checks and Cleanup
Trust Murphy Moving & Storage to Handle Every Step!
Key Takeaways✔ Always evaluate the table’s size, weight, and layout path before beginning the move. ✔ Use the correct tools and protective supplies to prevent damage and ensure safe handling. ✔ Taking the table apart properly makes transportation safer and reassembly easier. ✔ Heavy parts should be lifted with care and support to avoid injury or damage. ✔ Professional movers offer experience and equipment that reduce risks and effort. ✔ A final inspection and setup check ensures the table is level, secure, and ready for use. |
Moving is often listed among the most stressful life events—and for good reason. It involves planning, physical effort, and the risk of damaging valuable items, especially when it comes to large, bulky pieces like a pool table. In fact, a recent survey of 1,000 Americans who had recently moved found that 45% considered moving to be the most stressful experience in their lives.
To help reduce that stress and handle the process with confidence, here are six expert-backed tips on how to move a pool table.
6 Tips from Moving Experts on How to Move a Pool Table
1. Assess the Pool Table
Moving a pool table isn’t just about lifting—it’s about knowing exactly what needs to be moved and how. One of the most important parts of understanding how to move a pool table is assessing both the table itself and the space around it.
Know the Table’s Size, Weight, and Build Type
Understanding the structure of the pool table helps determine the right approach and prevents avoidable damage. These factors affect how many people are needed and what tools or moving equipment should be used.
- Measure the Table Dimensions: Use a tape measure to record the table’s length, width, and height before attempting to disassemble it. This helps identify whether it can be moved as-is or needs to be taken apart.
- Estimate the Weight: Slate pool tables can weigh over 1,000 pounds, while non-slate versions are often lighter but still bulky. Knowing the weight helps in choosing the right moving method and preparing proper support.
- Identify the Type of Table: Slate tables usually have one or more heavy stone slabs under the felt, making them delicate and hard to move without damage. Non-slate tables are easier to transport but may be less stable and durable.
Measure Doorways and Pathways in Advance
Before any lifting begins, it’s important to check that the pool table—or its disassembled parts—can pass through all necessary areas. This step is often overlooked, but it can make or break the entire move.
- Measure All Entry and Exit Points: Use a tape measure to check the height and width of every doorway, hallway, or stairwell along the moving route. Compare these numbers with the dimensions of the table’s largest pieces.
- Check for Tight Corners or Obstructions: Look for narrow turns, ceiling fixtures, or bulky furniture that could block the path. Removing these obstacles in advance makes it safer and quicker to move the table.
- Plan for Vertical and Horizontal Clearance: Account for the full turning radius and headroom needed when moving large components like slate pieces or rails. Even if it fits in theory, the angle and weight of the item can change what’s possible.
2. Gather the Right Tools and Supplies
Moving a pool table takes more than just strength—it also requires preparation and the right tools. Without the proper equipment, disassembling and transporting the table can result in damage or injury.
Must-Have Tools for Safe Disassembly
Every pool table is built with heavy and delicate components that need careful handling. The right tools make it easier to take apart the table efficiently and reduce the risk of damage during the move.
- Socket Wrench Set: Used to loosen and remove the bolts securing the rails and legs. A full set with various sizes ensures compatibility with most pool table hardware.
- Power Drill With Bit Attachments: Speeds up the removal of screws and bolts, especially when parts are tightly secured or rusted. It saves time and prevents wrist strain during long disassembly sessions.
- Flathead and Phillips Screwdrivers: Essential for handling different types of screws located in various parts of the table, including side rails and pockets. A durable set helps avoid stripping screw heads and delays during the process.
- Staple Remover or Needle-Nose Pliers: Needed to safely detach the felt from the table without damaging it. These tools allow precision when removing small staples or tacks embedded in the slate bed.
- Moving Blankets and Padding: Protect fragile and polished parts like the slate and wood from dents and scratches during transport.
- Furniture Dollies or Sliders: Help shift the heaviest parts, especially slate slabs, without scraping the floor or risking injury. They also reduce the need for lifting, making the move safer and more manageable.
Labeling Materials for Easy Reassembly
Understanding how to move a pool table also means being able to put it back together correctly. Labeling parts during disassembly avoids confusion and ensures the table is reassembled properly in its new location.
- Labeled Ziplock Bags: Store bolts, screws, brackets, and washers from each section in clearly labeled bags to prevent mix-ups later. This step keeps small parts from being lost and makes reassembly straightforward.
- Masking Tape and Marker: Tape can be applied to slate pieces and felt sections with clear markings to show placement and order. This labeling system helps preserve the original alignment and fit during reassembly.
- Notebook or Step Sheet: Writing down each step or snapping photos during the breakdown gives visual cues and step-by-step reminders. This simple documentation method becomes very helpful when reassembling complex sections.
3. Disassemble The Pool Table
Disassembling a pool table is a key part of the moving process. Doing it properly helps prevent damage and makes each part easier and safer to move. This step requires care, patience, and the right tools.
Remove Pockets First
The pockets are usually attached with staples, screws, or bolts depending on the table’s design. Removing them is the first step in disassembly.
- Use The Right Tools: A staple remover or screwdriver helps detach the pockets without tearing the leather or plastic. Using the correct tools from the start prevents extra damage and makes it easier to understand how to move a pool table step by step.
- Work Gently: Tugging too hard can damage the pockets or surrounding wood. Slow, steady movements help preserve the table’s frame and make reattachment easier later.
Take Off the Rails
After the pockets are out, the rails come next. These long wooden pieces are bolted beneath the table and connected to each other.
- Loosen Bolts Carefully: Use a socket wrench to remove bolts without stripping them. Keep track of which bolts go where, as reinstallation can be confusing without this.
- Label Each Rail: Mark each rail’s original position to make reassembly easier later. A labeled rail set speeds up setup and helps maintain the table’s original balance.
Remove the Felt
Felt can either be stapled or glued to the slate. Removing it correctly helps avoid the cost of replacing it.
- Peel Slowly: If stapled, use a staple remover and pull gently to avoid tearing. If glued, use a scraper and patience to lift it without stretching or ripping.
- Fold Neatly For Storage: If the felt is still in good shape, fold it loosely and store it in a clean bag to protect it from dust and moisture. Avoid sharp creases, as these can lead to permanent wrinkles once the felt is reapplied.
Detach the Slate
The slate is the heaviest and most delicate part of the table. Most tables have three slate panels, each weighing 100–150 pounds.
- Remove Screws With Precision: Screws often sit below beeswax or putty. Scrape it off gently to access them and avoid cracking the slate surface.
- Use At Least Two People: Slate must be lifted evenly to avoid cracking or chipping. This is one of the most important steps in how to move a pool table safely, as slate damage can be costly.
Store All Parts Safely
Once everything is disassembled, proper storage helps keep the parts in good condition for transport and reassembly.
- Label All Hardware: Use small plastic bags to store screws, bolts, and brackets. Write clear labels on each bag and tape them to the corresponding parts if possible.
- Protect Fragile Parts: Wrap slate pieces, pockets, and rails in moving blankets or bubble wrap to prevent damage. Store them in a flat, stable area to avoid warping or chips during the move.
4. Move the Components Carefully
Moving a pool table is not just about strength—it also takes the right strategy and equipment. Each part of the table is heavy and sensitive, especially the slate. A careful, methodical approach reduces the chance of injury and damage.
Use the Right Moving Equipment
Specialized tools can make the move much safer and smoother. Using the right equipment also prevents damaging floors, corners, and delicate table pieces.
- Furniture Dollies: These are flat platforms with wheels that can support the heavy legs and frame. They make it easier to roll the pieces across rooms without straining or damaging the floor, especially when learning how to move a pool table.
- Furniture Sliders: These discs go under the table legs or frame and help slide heavy parts across carpet or hardwood floors without scratching or snagging. They are ideal for tight indoor spaces where lifting is limited or unsafe.
- Lifting Straps: For tight spaces or awkward corners, lifting straps give better control and reduce strain on the arms and back. They also allow better balance and coordination when moving bulky parts like the frame or cabinet.
Protect the Slate and Frame
Slate pieces are extremely heavy and fragile. Even a small chip can ruin the table’s level surface.
- Moving Blankets: Thick, padded blankets should be wrapped around slate sections, table legs, and rails to cushion against bumps and drops. This helps absorb shock during transport and is critical when understanding how to move a pool table correctly.
- Corner Guards: Foam or plastic guards protect sharp edges of the slate and wood frame, especially during loading and unloading. These prevent chips, cracks, or scratches from contact with doorways, trucks, or walls.
- Secure Ties or Tape: Use stretch wrap or tape to hold padding and blankets in place. Make sure it’s tight enough to stay secure, but gentle enough not to leave marks or damage surfaces.
5. Consider Hiring Professional Movers
Moving a pool table is not like moving regular furniture. It’s heavy, awkwardly shaped, and often delicate. While some people might attempt it on their own, there are clear situations where hiring professional movers is the safest and smartest option.
When It’s Worth Hiring Pros
Some situations are just too complicated or risky for a DIY move. Here’s when it makes sense to bring in experts.
- Slate Table Move: Slate pool tables are extremely heavy and fragile. They require precision to disassemble, move, and re-level correctly.
- Multi-Story Homes: Navigating stairs with large, awkward pieces is difficult and increases the chance of injury or property damage.
- Long-Distance Relocation: For out-of-town or cross-country moves, professionals ensure the table is secured properly during transport.
- Lack of Tools or Help: If the proper tools or enough helping hands aren’t available, movers bring the manpower and gear needed.
- Time Constraints: Professional movers can complete the job more efficiently, which is important during tight moving schedules.
What To Look For In A Moving Company
Not all moving companies have experience with pool tables. Choosing the right one ensures the table is handled with care from start to finish.
- Specialized Experience: Look for movers who have specific experience in how to move a pool table—not just general furniture moving.
- Proper Equipment: A good company will bring dollies, lifts, moving blankets, and other tools designed for heavy items.
- Disassembly and Setup Services: The best movers offer full-service handling, including disassembling, moving, and reassembling the table.
- Valuation Coverage: Check if the company offers valuation that covers damage during the move, especially for high-value tables.
- Clear Pricing: Reputable movers will give upfront estimates with no hidden fees for stairs, disassembly, or long-distance travel.
Cost vs. Risk Comparison
Hiring movers involves an upfront cost, but it’s important to weigh that against the potential risks of doing it without help.
- Avoiding Damage: A poorly moved pool table can result in cracked slate, torn felt, or damaged frames—often costing more than the move itself.
- Injury Prevention: Lifting a pool table without proper technique can lead to serious harm, including back or joint injuries. Using smart lifting practices significantly reduces the risk of back sprains, muscle pulls, wrist and elbow injuries, and other strain-related issues caused by handling heavy objects.
- Long-Term Table Performance: Professionals can re-level the table after the move, keeping gameplay smooth and accurate.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing the job is in expert hands allows homeowners to focus on the rest of their move without added stress.
6. Final Checks and Cleanup
After the pool table has been moved and reassembled, it’s important to finish with a few careful steps. This ensures the table stays in great condition and is ready for play. These final checks help avoid long-term damage and keep the playing experience accurate and smooth.
Inspect the Table for Any Damage
Before using the table, take a few minutes to look over each part. Moving can sometimes cause small issues that need attention.
- Check the Frame and Legs: Look for cracks, dents, or signs of strain on the wood or metal structure.
- Examine the Slate: Make sure there are no chips, scratches, or cracks in the slate surface.
- Review the Pockets and Rails: Ensure all components are tightly secured and show no signs of wear or damage.
- Look Underneath: Check the underside of the table for any loose bolts or hardware that may have shifted during the move.
Test for Levelness and Playability
Even the slightest uneven surface can throw off gameplay. Testing the level of the table ensures it plays correctly and won’t shift over time. This is an essential step in how to move a pool table properly.
- Use a Carpenter’s Level: Place a level tool across the table in multiple directions to confirm a flat surface.
- Adjust the Legs if Needed: Some pool tables come with adjustable legs; fine-tune them to even out the table.
- Roll a Ball to Test: Gently roll a cue ball in several directions. If it veers off on its own, the table is not level.
- Listen for Sounds: During play, strange noises can indicate a loose slate or unbalanced parts.
Dispose or Store Packing Materials
Once the table is fully set up, clean up the moving area to keep it safe and tidy. Packing materials should be handled properly depending on future needs.
- Recycle What You Can: Cardboard boxes, foam padding, and plastic wraps can usually be recycled.
- Store Reusable Materials: Moving blankets, tools, and hardware bags can be stored for future use.
- Label and Box Small Parts: Keep any leftover screws, bolts, or instructions in a clearly marked box.
- Clear the Area: Dispose of trash and sweep the area to create a clean, hazard-free space around the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move a pool table without taking it apart?
It’s not recommended to move a pool table without taking it apart. Attempting to move it in one piece can damage the frame, warp the slate, or injure those lifting it. Most pool tables are too heavy and bulky to navigate through doorways or stairs fully assembled.
How heavy is a 7ft slate pool table?
A 7-foot slate pool table typically weighs between 600 and 800 pounds. The exact weight depends on the thickness of the slate and the materials used in the frame. Slate alone can weigh around 150 to 250 pounds per piece.
Will two men and a truck move a pool table?
Two men and a truck can move a pool table, but it depends on the type and size. For slate tables, disassembly is necessary, and additional help may be needed due to the weight. It’s important to confirm with the moving company that they handle pool tables.
Is it expensive to move a pool table?
Moving a pool table can be costly, with prices ranging from $375 to over $1,500. The final cost depends on distance, table size, and whether reassembly is included. Slate tables cost more due to their weight and complexity. Hiring professionals ensures it’s done safely, even if it’s a bit more expensive. However, pricing and services can vary between companies, so it’s recommended to check with reputable movers like Murphy Moving & Storage for accurate quotes and detailed information.
What is the heaviest part of a pool table?
The heaviest part of a pool table is the slate playing surface. Slate can come in one to three pieces and makes up the bulk of the table’s weight. Each piece can weigh over 200 pounds, depending on thickness. Proper equipment and lifting support are needed to move it safely.
Trust Murphy Moving & Storage to Handle Every Step!
To move pool tables, let experienced professionals manage the heavy lifting, careful disassembly, secure transport, and precise reassembly. With Murphy Moving & Storage, each move is completed with expert care, proper equipment, and attention to detail—no shortcuts, no risks.
Get in touch today for a custom quote and expert support every step of the way!
