Before we get into the meat of the blog, let’s just say that it’s never a good idea to move a pool table on your own. They’re, like, really heavy (up to 1000 pounds), plus they’re awkward and bulky and have a lot of parts to worry about. It’s very easy for the uninitiated to pull a muscle, break a toe, or damage the table and surrounding walls and floors.
Just like pianos, they have a lot of legs and accessories that can break off and make the overall moving process very dicey. In addition to the bulkiness and weight, moving a pool table involves a long and tedious disassembly process – not to mention reassembly process once in the new place.
These are all great reasons to hire professional pool table movers in KC. But in the spirit of learning, we’ve put together a guide on how to move a pool table on your own.
Gather the Right Supplies and Materials
Gather up all the supplies you will need. You will need:
- Power drill
- Screwdriver
- Socket wrench
- Thick moving blankets
- Staple remover (to remove the felt)
- Bags and labels (to contain all the small parts and screws)
Rent a Moving Truck
You can’t just transport your pool table in a sedan or SUV. You will need a moving van or truck. That’s because standard pool table sizes range from seven feet to nine feet long. Be sure to take precise measurements of the pool table before renting a truck so you know you have rented a large enough vehicle.
Get Help
This is when it’s helpful to have a lot of eager friends and family members. You’ll need at least four or five helpers for this task, hopefully ones who are young and in shape! Tell them to wear the right clothing and sneakers for the task. A pair of gloves wouldn’t hurt either. You are responsible for their safety during the relocation process, so make sure they know the risks involved. And be sure to compensate them well afterwards with pizza and beverages!
Measure Doorways, Hallways and Staircases
Take measurements of hallways, doorways and stairwells to make sure you can even fit the pool table through the house in the first place. If not, call a specialty mover, as they have tips and tricks to make things happen.
Before you even start to move the table, map out a route through the home you plan to take. Make sure there are no obstacles or obstructions, open all doors beforehand, and pad the floors and walls. Cover sharp edges with bumpers or thick towels.
Disassemble the Table
Remove the six ball pockets. To do this, you will need to take out the staples that secure them. If they are screwed in, remove the screws using a screwdriver. Then, take off the side rails with a socket wrench. Store all bolts and screws separately, taking care to label each part.
Remove the felt on the table top using a staple remover. Be very careful or you could rip the felt. Now that the felt is removed, it’s time to take off the slate, which is essentially a rock that’s easily damaged if not properly handled. Slates are very heavy, weighing about 450 pounds each. They are usually screwed in, so use your power drill to get them out. You’ll need help from all your friends to lift off the slate. Place the slate on the floor or against a wall. Be careful no one steps on it or hits it accidentally.
Now, take off each pool table leg by turning the main body on its side or upside down.
Protect All Parts and Load on Truck
Properly wrap each part you remove in moving blankets and bubble wrap. Carry out each part with the help of friends. Use dollies when necessary. Load onto the truck carefully, and secure the main body to the walls if you can. You will want to put the pool table on the truck first so it’s in the back. Make sure all weight is distributed evenly. Strap all items down and make sure nothing wobbles.
Reassemble the Pool Table
Your job is only half over, so don’t breathe a sigh of relief yet. Now that you have arrived at the new house, it’s time to offload the table and reassemble it. You’ll just have to reassemble it in reverse of how you disassembled it. If it helps, take photos when disassembling so you know exactly how everything goes back together later.
With assistance from your helpers, reattach the legs to the main table, then add the slate and felt. It can be tricky to reattach the felt while keeping it wrinkle free. Take your time with this step. If it’s not completely smooth, the billiards experience will be ruined for future play. This is yet another reason why you should let specialty movers handle this.
Hire Professional Movers
As you can see, it’s a time consuming and dangerous process to move a pool table yourself. Even if you have enough helpers and tools to get the job done, you’re still risking your physical safety as well as increasing the risk of damage to walls, floors and the pool table itself.
Finding a reputable specialty mover is in your best interest. They bring the required tools, equipment and know-how to get the job done efficiently and safely.
Contact Moving Proz
If you’re moving to the KC area and you have a pool table that you need help with, get a free moving quote today. In addition to pool tables, we specialize in moving large items like pianos, safes and sectionals. Rely on our team of licensed and insured movers who are trained in the art of pool table relocation!