How to Move a Pool Table: 7 Tips & Tricks

Moving a pool table is certainly not for the faint of heart. The object itself is heavy and big, which makes it difficult to move without damage. At the same time, pool tables are expensive, and the last thing you want to do is ruin yours during the move. Likewise, its weight can damage walls and other surfaces, which can also be expensive to repair.

To make the task a little bit easier, here are seven tips and tricks for how to move a pool table.

Do You Really Need the Pool Table?

Before you dive into moving a pool table, first really think about whether or not you need the pool table in your new home. Although pool tables are a cool item to have, many personal pool tables are a total waste inside the home.

If you haven’t used the pool table before and have no need for it in the future, why should you waste your time, energy, or money moving the pool table to your new home? Although this might not be the tip you want to hear, it is something to keep in mind.

In the case that you admit to yourself that you don’t need the pool table, there’s no need to bother yourself with the tips and tricks for moving the pool table since you’re getting rid of it anyways. However, keep reading to learn what to do if you decide that the pool table is right for you.

Should You Just Hire a Professional?

If you decide that you want the pool table, it’s a good idea to consider hiring a professional. Although professionals will charge quite a bit to move the pool table, they can ensure that the product will be moved safely without damaging the home in the process. If anything is damaged, they will cover the repairs.

Most professionals will charge by weight. They will also charge additional fees associated with taking the pool table apart and putting it back together before and after the move. Carefully consider these fees so you can decide if hiring a professional is right for you.

Should You Move It by Yourself?

Although you should never try to move a pool table by yourself, you can try to move the pool table without professionals if you have a lot of friends and family members to help you out. This method will help you save some money, but it’s essential to go slow in the process so that you do not damage anything during the move.

The 7 Steps on How to Move the Pool Table

Once you have everything you need, here are the steps you need to take to move the pool table without the help of professionals:

1. Get Helpers

The number one thing you should do is find a team of helpers that will help you move the pool table. You will need at least four or five friends, but it’s best to get more just in case your pool table is too heavy for the four or five people you select.

If you cannot get enough helpers, then do not try to move the full table on your own. Splurge on a professional team who will ensure that the pool table is moved safely and efficiently.

2. Measure All Entries and Hallways

Once you are confident that you have enough people to help you move the pool table, it’s time to continue in the process. Measure all the entryways, hallways, and rooms the pool table will have to move through. Knowing the width of these areas will ensure that the pool table will fit.

If you have a complex situation where rooms and entryways are not wide enough for the pool table, contact a professional. Professionals will provide alternative options for removing the pool table in a safe manner.

3. Take the Pool Table Apart

Now, disassemble the pool table. This part is difficult and requires a lot of patience. You need to remove the pockets, balls, felt, rails, and slates. Be sure to take your time during this process so you do not damage the pool table while taking it apart.

4. Protect the Pieces

You will need to protect the individual pieces by using moving blankets and maybe bubble wrap if needed. Ensure all the individual pieces are completely covered so they do not get damaged during the move or car ride.

5. Load the Truck

Now it’s time for the difficult part. Pick up all the pieces and load them in your moving truck. Have all your team members help you out during this process. Go as slowly as possible while you are maneuvering the pool table around your home. You do not want the corners to damage door frames, walls, or windows.

6. Secure the Pieces in the Truck

Once you have brought all the pool table parts to your truck, make sure everything is secured down with ropes. You do not want the pool table to move around during the drive. Securing the piece ensures that the pool table is safe during the actual move.

7. Put It Back Together

Once you get to your location, carefully bring the pool table into its new home, and put it back together. Basically, this last step is an undoing of the steps above.

Other Tips to Keep in Mind

Here are some other tips to keep in mind to make sure your pool table move is as safe and efficient as possible:

Final Thoughts

If you want to move a pool table by yourself, follow the 7 steps above to do so safely, and remember the other tips to ensure the move goes as smoothly as possible.

That being said, moving a pool table isn’t for everyone. The process is difficult and hard. Make sure you actually need the pool table. From there, consider hiring a professional. Although professionals will charge a hefty price for moving a pool table, it will ensure that your home and pool table are safe during the move.

Featured Image Credit: JUNO KWON, Pixabay