How to Move a Pool Table by Yourself Complete Guide

Moving a pool table can be difficult due to its weight, delicate components, and the precision necessary for reassembly. However, with the correct knowledge, tools, and strategy, you can handle this difficult undertaking and ensure a successful and trouble-free move.

Before you begin the actual move, you must familiarize yourself with the processes required to relocate a pool table. We provide essential information and step-by-step instructions in this complete guide to help you improve your pool table moving experience. Understanding the complexities involved in moving a pool table is important for its safety and lifespan, whether you're relocating to a new home or rearranging your current area.

If you're unsure how to move a pool table safely, always start by examining the table’s construction and slate type to plan disassembly correctly.

Different Types of Pool Tables and Their Complexity to Move

Pool tables are available in various styles, each with its own qualities and moving considerations. Understanding the unique obstacles associated with different types of billiard tables might assist you in properly preparing for the relocation process.

Slate Bed Pool Table

A common type of pool table is the slate bed table. These tables are well-known for their high-quality playing surface and long-lasting durability. However, their heavyweight and intricate design makes them more difficult to move than other types. Slate bed tables frequently have a solid slate playing surface, which adds weight and requires extra care when dismantling and transporting. On average, a 6-foot slate bed table weighs around 500 pounds, while a 7-foot table can weigh approximately 700 pounds. The larger 8-foot tables can reach a weight of 1,000 pounds or more.

The slate slabs must be removed with caution, as should any screws or bolts anchoring them to the frame. Furthermore, the structure and legs of slate bed tables are typically made of solid wood, adding weight and complexity to the moving process.

Portable Pool Table

The non-slate bed table, often known as a "portable" or "lightweight" table, is another form of pool table. These tables are designed to be more readily moved because they are made of lighter materials, such as plywood or synthetic surfaces, rather than heavy slate. Non-slate bed tables are typically smaller and have a simpler structure, making them easier to handle for DIY moves.

They are frequently built with folding or detachable legs to facilitate dismantling and portability. While non-slate bed tables are easier to move than slate bed tables, it is still vital to use caution and follow proper disassembly and reassembly methods to avoid damage to the table components.

Note: Different pool table brands have design differences that affect how they come apart. For example, Diamond tables often have concealed rail bolts under the slate and heavy commercial-grade legs. Olhausen tables may feature Accu-Fast cushions and Quick Set™ leg systems, which require specific steps to take apart. Brunswick tables, especially older models, may have dowel joints and pinned slate, which can make them harder to take apart. Check the brand's manual or contact a technician certified by the Billiard Congress of America for help.

Can I Move a Pool Table by Myself?

Moving a pool table by yourself is possible, and it may be a rewarding experience if undertaken with care and caution. While there are risks, certain factors can help you handle the entire process more efficiently.

While moving a pool table on your own can be a reasonable alternative, you should evaluate your talents and the potential problems. To move a pool table by yourself, create a checklist that includes protective packing, component labeling, and safe lifting procedures to avoid errors. If you are unsure about your capacity to do the task, it is best to seek professional help. Finally, during the moving procedure, emphasize safety and take the appropriate precautions to safeguard yourself and the table.

The Weight and Complexity of Moving a Pool Table

The weight of a pool table is one of the main reasons it can be difficult to move. A pool table typically weighs over 1,000 pounds, making it a big piece of furniture that requires careful planning and labor. The tremendous weight of the table needs to be handled carefully to protect the safety of both the movers and the pool table's integrity.

Furthermore, the complicated structure of a pool table complicates the transportation process. Each component, from the rails and felt to the slate and legs, is critical to the table's stability and playing pleasure. Precision in disassembling and reassembling these components is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the table and guaranteeing an excellent playing surface.

Knowing the weight of each pool table part helps you plan the move and keep it safe during transport.

Potential Challenges and Troubleshooting Tips

Moving a pool table yourself can provide unanticipated problems. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you overcome these obstacles. If you come across any damaged components during disassembly or transportation, call a professional to determine the degree of the damage and recommend proper repairs. If unanticipated hurdles, such as tight corners or narrow staircases, limit your progress, explore other solutions or consider hiring professional movers.

One of the most difficult aspects of moving a pool table without professionals is its weight and size. Always emphasize safety and seek professional assistance if you feel overwhelmed or unclear about the process. If prepared for probable challenges, you may confidently and easily manage the complications of moving a billiard table and know when to seek assistance.

Tables with ball return systems are harder to take apart and put back together because they have more internal parts. This can raise moving costs by $100 to $200 compared to tables with drop pockets.

The component that suffers the most damage during DIY moves is usually the side rail bolts. These bolts are often stripped or over-torqued, especially when removed or reinstalled with hand tools. Damaged bolts can lead to rail misalignment and uneven cushions.

Your Comprehensive Pool Table Moving Guide

We hope this guide will provide you with the knowledge and guidance you need to move your pool table confidently and easily without the need for pool table movers. We'll go over every step of the procedure, from initial planning and acquiring the necessary equipment and support to careful disassembly, protection, transportation, and reassembly of the components.

We'll include extensive step-by-step directions and important considerations throughout the guide to guarantee that your pool table stays in excellent condition during the journey. By following our advice and using best practices, you can effectively manage the intricacies of transporting a pool table and enjoy uninterrupted play in your new location.

People moving within apartment buildings often deal with narrow stairwells and limited elevator access for large slate pieces. Contact building management early to reserve the elevator or carefully measure the stairwells. If the slate doesn’t fit, plan to hire a team that can lift it through a balcony or window using straps.

Gathering the Right Tools and Assistance

To begin disassembling and transporting your pool table, get the necessary tools and request the assistance of friends or family members. Consider having the following tools on hand:

1. Socket wrench: During the disassembly procedure, a socket wrench will be useful for removing bolts and screws.

2. Moving blankets or furniture pads: These will protect the pool table components during transportation.

3. Moving straps: Use 2-inch-wide lifting straps rated for 900 pounds, and make sure they have padded loops. These straps help control slab tilt and lower the stress on your fingers and slab edges. Avoid using nylon rope, as it can cut into the edge of the slate.

4. Measuring tape: Use a measuring tape to ensure precise alignment and fit during reassembly.

5. Furniture dolly: A furniture dolly will make it easier to manage and move the pool table's large and bulky components.

6. Staple puller: This tool will help you remove the staples from the pocket straps.

7. Goggles: Protect your eyes by wearing goggles during the disassembly process.

8. Flat head screwdriver: You'll need this to remove bolts under the rails.

9. Power Drill: A power drill can be handy for quickly disassembling and reassembling the table's components.

Having dependable help is also key. Gather three or four people who are physically capable of managing the weight of the pool table and are ready to help. You'll be well-prepared to move a pool table if you have the necessary tools and support.

Disassembling the Pool Table

The process of disassembling the pool table is critical and demands patience and attention to detail. One of the most crucial common mistakes to avoid while moving a pool table is failing to correctly disassemble the table, which can result in damage and challenges during transport. Disassembling the table properly will protect its fragile components and make reassembly much easier. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Begin by photographing and documenting the pool table setup and the location of each component. This will come in handy throughout the reassembly process.

2. Inspect each component for any damage or repair requirements. Take note of any locations that may require special attention during the moving process.

3. Begin disassembling the pool table systematically, using the manufacturer's instructions if they are available. Remove the rails by carefully slipping them out one at a time. Be cautious because side pockets can collapse under weight.

4. After that, take off the felt. Remove each staple individually if it is stapled. Be cautious if the felt is glued to avoid damaging the pocket areas. To remove the felt from a pool table, carefully lift the edges and use a staple remover or a flathead screwdriver to loosen the staples.

5. The slate, which is the pool table's heavy playing surface, must be lifted off the frame. Some pool tables may have screws securing the slate to the frame. Use a drill with replaceable screwdriver heads to carefully remove the screws. Take care not to damage the screw heads during this process.

6. To move a pool table without damaging it, always detach the slate using a torque-controlled drill to prevent over-tightening during reassembly, which often causes frame stress cracks.

7. Manufacturers often mark each slate section with small numbers or notches showing where it belongs. If slates are reassembled in the wrong order, even when the table is level, small gaps can form at the seams and affect how the balls roll. Most movers ignore this detail.

8. Once the slate is removed, it's time to detach the legs from the pool table. Flip the frame upside down, remove the legs, and set them aside for transport.

Follow this checklist to ensure each component is safely and systematically disassembled.

Protecting the Pool Table Components

To avoid damage during transit, each component of the pool table must be properly secured. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

Wrap the rails and frame with moving blankets or furniture pads, removing any loose parts first. Packing tape should be used to secure the blankets in place to offer cushioning and protection against bumps and scratches.

Cover the most delicate and heavy slate with a thick moving blanket or a specialized slate cover. To prevent the cover from shifting during transportation, use packaging tape or straps to secure it tightly. Wrap your pool table's sensitive surfaces in bubble wrap before moving it.

Always handle slate pieces on their edges, not flat, to spread the weight evenly and lower the risk of cracking. Don’t place heavy items on top of the slate during transport. Use enough padding to protect it from road bumps and vibrations.

Roll the felt tightly to protect it. If the felt is stapled, remove each staple individually. If it's glued, be careful not to damage the pocket areas. Roll the felt securely and fasten it with tape to keep its shape and protect it from dirt and moisture throughout the move.

Take extreme caution when handling your pool table's ball pockets, since they can easily be damaged during relocation. By following these precautions, you may protect the pool table components and reduce the likelihood of damage during transporting them.

Transportation and Reassembly

It's time to move the pool table components to their new location now that they've been properly disassembled and maintained. Ensure that the walkways and doorways in both the old and new homes are free of obstructions. Measure the dimensions of the entrances to verify that the table will easily fit through. Remove any furniture or decorative items that might be in the way of the path. For safe transportation and reassembly, follow these steps:

1. Use a furniture dolly to carefully maneuver and put the disassembled components into a suitable moving truck or vehicle. Secure the components with straps or ropes to avoid moving or damage during transit.

2. Choose a truck with a bed height under 30 inches to load slate more safely with a ramp. Higher beds raise the lifting angle and make it easier to drop slabs. Lower beds also make dolly transfers easier.

3. If you're using a pickup truck, make sure the bed is clean and lined with moving blankets to protect the table parts. Secure each piece with ratchet straps. Pay close attention to the slate parts to keep them from moving during transport. Transport the slate parts flat, and don’t stack them. This helps lower the chance of cracking.

Note: Stacking slate pieces puts pressure on the bottom slab. This pressure can lead to internal fractures. Hauling them flat and separated, with 1-inch foam padding and secured straps, helps protect each slab from damage.

4. To reduce the chance of damage, handle the components with care during loading and prevent severe handling or excessive jostling.

5. Refer to the images and paperwork taken during the disassembly process when you arrive at the new location. This will allow you to precisely reassemble the pool table components, assuring appropriate alignment and fit.

6. Start by reattaching the legs to the frame, as directed by the manufacturer or the reference photos you took previously. Once the legs are properly attached, flip the frame over.

7. Place the slate back into the frame carefully, perfectly aligned. Use the screws that were removed earlier to fasten the slate tightly. To maintain stability, add a screw in each corner.

Finally, reattach the felt, ensuring it fits snugly and smoothing any wrinkles. Reassembling a pool table without re-stretching or replacing the felt can cause a noticeable drop in ball speed. Professional refitters say poorly reinstalled felt can cut ball travel distance by up to 15 to 20 percent, especially if it has slack or creases. If necessary, follow the manufacturer's instructions or seek expert assistance.

The Billiard Congress of America (BCA) sets standards for pool table assembly, slate leveling, and technician training. Certified installers follow leveling guidelines with a tolerance of ±0.005 inches across the slate. Hiring a BCA-certified technician helps ensure the work meets industry standards, especially when re-felting or adjusting high-end tables.

Some older homes don't have wide doorways or elevators, which makes it hard to remove and move slate from upper floors. If your table is upstairs and there’s no clear path to carry it out, use a winch or hoist system to lower the heavy slate from a balcony. This is safer than trying to carry 200-pound slabs down narrow indoor stairs.

Re-Leveling the Pool Table at the New Location

It is necessary to re-level it to ensure optimal playability. To begin, place the slate pieces onto the frame, carefully aligning them. Check that the seams are flush and level. Then, a bubble leveler will be placed on the pool table's surface to identify any unevenness. Adjust the legs or slate using shims or adjustable mechanisms to achieve a level playing surface. Take time with this process, making little tweaks and constantly checking the level until you attain the correct balance.

Tap the slate and shims lightly with a rubber mallet to lock them in place. Excessive force can damage the slate or the table frame. The most common complaint after DIY reassembly is ball drift caused by uneven slate seams. It often happens when shims are reused or installed incorrectly, especially if they’re old and no longer hold tension evenly.

Check at least 12 points across the slate. Inspect three on each slab, with one in the center and one at each end, and check three at the crosswise seams. This helps ensure even ball roll and proper slate alignment in every part of the table.

Once the slate is level, make sure the frame and legs are also level. To create an even balance, adjust the legs by twisting the adjustable feet clockwise or counterclockwise as needed. Shake the pool table gently to assess its stability. Recheck the levelness and make any required adjustments if it wobbles or seems shaky.

To avoid overtightening or causing damage, use caution when tightening screws or making adjustments. You can ensure an enjoyable play experience in your new location by re-leveling the pool table.

Most DIY movers use a traditional bubble level to reassemble their pool table. Using a rotary laser level, which is common in professional installations, can reduce surface variance by up to 50 percent compared to bubble levels. This is especially helpful for three-piece slates.

Pool tables may change over time due to environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Check the levelness of the table regularly and make modifications as needed to maintain optimal gameplay.

Essential Safety Measures for Moving a Pool Table

When moving a pool table yourself, prioritizing safety is the most important part. Wearing protective gear, such as gloves and closed-toe shoes, is necessary for a safe and injury-free DIY experience. These items will provide you with the necessary protection against potential cuts, scrapes, or bruises. Remember, even though you may feel confident in your abilities, accidents can happen, so taking precautions from the start is best.

In addition to wearing protective gear, it's essential to use proper lifting techniques when moving a pool table by yourself. This means avoiding excessive strain on your back or muscles. Rather than attempting to move the entire weight of the table on your own, request the help of a friend or family member. When moving a heavy pool table alone, slate lifting clamps and leverage bars can help shift the weight safely without straining joints or tipping the base.

Distribute the weight evenly and use your legs, not your back, to lift. By following these lifting techniques, you significantly reduce the risk of back injuries or muscle strains that could hinder your DIY pool table moving process.

Professional movers often provide valuation coverage, also called moving insurance. Full Value Protection is the most thorough option. This plan usually costs about 1% of an item's declared value. For example, insuring a $5,000 table would cost around $50. Basic coverage, required by federal law, only pays $0.60 per pound for each item. In contrast, Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or reimburse based on current market value. This makes it an important option for high-value or antique furniture.

Many people don’t realize that high-value pool tables can be added to renters or homeowners insurance as scheduled property for protection against loss or damage. Check with your insurance provider to see if your pool table qualifies for scheduled personal property coverage. This coverage protects against damage or loss that isn’t related to moving and usually costs less than $100 per year for a $5,000 item.

Can You Move a Pool Table Without Taking it Apart?

Moving a pool table a short distance, such as from one room to another, is achievable without disassembling it if you have plenty of help and the right tools, such as furniture sliders and dollies. To move a pool table without disassembly, use heavy-duty furniture sliders on all legs and coordinate each lift to maintain frame stability. This approach, however, may cause damage to the table, requiring the adjustment of bumpers and the re-leveling of the slate. As a result, it is necessary to take extra precautions or involve professionals to ensure the safety of your pool table during transportation.

It is important to note that attempting to move a pool table in one piece by yourself is not recommended due to its size, weight, and complexity. When moving a pool table, it is generally recommended to disassemble it, especially if it is a three-piece slate pool table. Taking the table apart provides more stability during transit and makes moving through doorways and narrow areas easier.

Moving a Pool Table Yourself vs. Professional Movers

Moving a pool table yourself gives you complete control while also saving you money. It allows you to organize the move around your schedule and preferences by following the step-by-step instructions in our guide. It also lets you understand its structure and assembly, which will be useful for future maintenance or repairs. On the other hand, it is a complex and time-consuming activity that demands careful handling and precision to maintain its safety and integrity.

Hiring expert movers has its own set of benefits. Pool table movers with experience have the knowledge and specialized equipment to complete the task effectively and safely. They are skilled at disassembling, transporting, and reassembling pool tables while minimizing potential damage. Professional movers are also insured, giving you peace of mind in the event of unforeseen accidents.

Moving a pool table on your own can cost under $100. Most of the cost goes toward packing supplies, renting a furniture dolly or lift, and a utility trailer or pickup truck. But this method requires taking apart the slate top and rails. Re-leveling the table with a machinist’s level is usually needed, but many people skip this step, often leading to problems after the move.

Professional pool table movers, like those certified by the Billiard Congress of America (BCA), charge an average of $650. Prices usually range from $375 to $1,500. They vary based on the table type, such as a one-piece or three-piece slate, the difficulty of moving it up or down stairs, and whether re-felting or crating is needed. High-end services may include exact leveling with digital tools and come with insurance-backed guarantees, especially for brands like Diamond Billiards or Olhausen.

DIY Pool Table Move Evaluation Checklist

Use this step-by-step checklist to decide if moving the pool table yourself makes sense, or if it’s safer to hire professionals.

Alternative Options for Moving a Pool Table

If you do not want to move the pool table yourself or hire professional movers, you can call a local retailer or manufacturer. These seasoned experts often provide specialized pool table moving services. You may benefit from their wide expertise and experience, guaranteeing that your table is moved carefully and efficiently.

Moving a pool table may be difficult, but it is doable with the correct technique, equipment, and assistance. You can ensure a safe and efficient transport for your pool table by following the steps described in this detailed guide and considering the additional information offered. Remember to prioritize safety and care, from disassembly to transportation and reassembly. You'll soon enjoy your pool table in its new location with appropriate planning, attention to detail, and patience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find Pool Table Movers in Your State