Moving a Pool Table the Right Way in 4 Easy Steps
Moving a pool table, also called a billiard table, is a challenging task that requires careful planning and the right tools. If you’re wondering how to move a pool table properly, you should disassemble it by removing the pockets, rails, felt, and slate to avoid damage and make transport much safer. Skipping these steps can risk injury or costly repairs.
Whether you’re taking your pool table to a new residence or from one room to another, understanding the process can save you time and frustration. By following clear, step-by-step instructions, you can DIY move your table with confidence and keep all its components in good shape.
However, it is also important to remember that moving a pool table is a challenging task. Without the right tools and expertise, there might be a risk of injury, damage to the table, and harm to your property. Components can also be easily damaged if mishandled. Before you begin, consider hiring professional pool table movers that you can trust to ease the moving process.
Our Quick Step-by-Step Guide On Moving Your Pool Table
Step 1. Preparing for the Move
Proper planning is essential when moving your precious pool table due to its weight, size, and the number of delicate components like the pool table’s felt. Before the actual heavy lifting, a thorough assessment, proper tools, and careful measurement should be performed to minimise risk and effort.
Assessing Your Pool Table
Begin by identifying your pool table type and construction. Is it a composite, wooden, or slate pool table? Not all tables are identical; slate beds, table frame designs, and pocket styles may vary. Look at whether yours is a one-piece or three-piece slate, as this will affect both disassembly and moving methods.
Check the overall condition of the table. Note any weak points, damaged parts, or loose joints that may need reinforcement before moving. Photograph your table from multiple angles and document major parts to assist with reassembly in the same manner.
If possible, consult the manufacturer’s manual for disassembly instructions. This can provide guidance on the order and method for removing felt from the main structure, rail bolts, ball pockets, and slate. Reviewing this information first will help prevent mistakes and ensure components are handled safely.
If your pool table is worn or aging, read our blog on moving antiques and fragile items.
Gathering Essential Tools and Materials Ball
You will need specific proper tools to ensure safe and efficient disassembly. Common items include:
- Power drill or screwdriver
- Staple remover or flathead screwdriver (for felt staples)
- Socket set or spanners
- Moving blankets or thick padding
- Packing tape and plastic wrap
- Permanent marker and labels
Organise all necessary tools beforehand and set up a parts tray or containers for small screws and bolts. Using labels or a simple diagram can help you keep track of where components belong.
Prepare enough padding materials to protect all the legs, slates, and rails during transport. Blankets or foam sheets prevent scratches and cracks. Have a sturdy dolly or heavy-duty trolley ready for lifting heavier pieces, and use straps to secure items in transit.
Measuring Doorways and Pathways
Accurately measure every doorway, hallway, and stairwell along your planned route. Compare these measurements with each pool table component to ensure there is enough clearance during removal and installation at the new location.
Remove any obstacles or furnishings in advance to create wide, clear access paths. Take note of tight corners, low ceilings, and uneven floors, adjusting your route as needed. If disassembly is required for transport, ensure you have enough space to work in both the old and new locations.
Short on time? Our packing services ensure your belongings are safely prepared for any move. Give us a call today – 02 7201 9367
Step 2: Disassembling the Pool Table
Disassembly is part of knowing how to move a pool table correctly. Proper disassembly ensures safe transport and reduces the risk of damaging any parts. Handling components like the felt, rails and slate demands care and the proper tools for the task.
Removing the Table Felt
Start by clearing the playing surface of all balls and accessories. If the felt is stapled, gently use a staple remover or flathead screwdriver to lift each staple. Take your time to avoid tearing the fabric.
For glued felt, carefully peel it away from the slate by pulling slowly, trying not to stretch or rip the material. If you intend to reuse the felt, roll it up tightly as you remove it to minimise wrinkles and creases.
Label the felt sections if needed and store them in a clean, dry space. If the felt is damaged or old, this is a good opportunity to replace it during reassembly.
Detaching the Rails and Pockets
Rails are usually secured by bolts underneath the table. Use a socket wrench or compatible tool to remove these bolts. Keep each bolt and washer in a labelled bag to prevent misplacement.
Pockets may be either screwed in or attached with staples. Unscrew the pockets or gently remove any staples, taking care not to crack the leather or plastic. Set the pockets aside in a separate, safe container.
Once the rails are detached, lay them flat to avoid warping. Note any alignment marks or hardware placement for later, as this will simplify reassembly and keep your table level.
Taking Apart the Slate
Most pool tables contain one large or three separate slate pieces supported by the frame. Using a screw or socket driver, remove the screws or bolts anchoring the slate to the base. Be sure to carefully sort screws securing the parts in some ziplock bags, as they are often a specific length and thread for the slate.
Carefully lift the slate pieces with help, as they are heavy and can weigh up to 80kg each. Always wear gloves and handle the slate on its edge to reduce breakage risk. If there is a seam filler or wax, gently scrape it away with a putty knife before removing each section.
Wrap slate pieces in thick blankets or moving pads and mark the orientation for future assembly. Store them upright in a dry, stable location to avoid accidental tipping or chipping.
Step 3: Transporting the Pool Table Components
Handling pool table parts carefully lowers the chance of costly damage, whether you are moving it over short distances or to a new house in a new city. Paying close attention to proper padding and lifting techniques also makes moving safer for everyone involved.
Moving Blankets and Bubble Wrap: Protecting Parts During Transit
Use thick moving blankets or bubble wrap to cover every major component, such as the table legs, slate, rails, and main body. Secure these wrappings tightly with packing tape or shrink wrap, and you can even add some foam bumpers. Avoid leaving any exposed surfaces, as even light knocks can scratch or chip wood and slate.
Label each part as you pack it, especially if there are several pieces that look similar. This will help with reassembly and reduce confusion. For smaller parts like bolts or pocket hardware, place them in sealed bags and tape them to the main frame or another large part.
When loading parts into a moving vehicle, lay the slate flat and never on its edge to prevent cracking. Use sturdy boxes for accessories, and ensure nothing heavy sits on top of fragile parts. Check that nothing can move around during transport.
If you are unsure how to do this, learn more through our blog on protecting your belongings during a move.
Lifting and Carrying to the Moving Truck Without Damage
Ideally, this process should be done with a pool table lift or a hydraulic lift for furniture. With the absence of these tools, remember to use lifting straps or a furniture dolly for heavy pieces like the slate and frame. Get help from at least two family members or friends for larger components, as even small bumps can result in damage to the table or your property.
Lift parts straight up and avoid twisting or dragging, which puts stress on joints and surfaces. Slide parts carefully onto dollies, making sure not to tip them at sharp angles. When moving through doorways and narrow spaces, communicate clearly with your team to avoid sudden movements.
Consider wearing work gloves to improve grip and protect your hands. For extra protection, place padding between the pool table parts and any hard surfaces you encounter during the move. Taking these steps makes it much less likely that you’ll damage parts or injure yourself.
Securing the Pool Table to the Moving Vehicle
Once all parts are safely packed and loaded, it’s critical to secure them properly inside the vehicle to prevent shifting during transport. Use ratchet straps or bungee cords to anchor the slate and larger pieces to the interior of the moving truck or van.
Ensure all parts are immobilised and have no room to slide or tip over. Place non-slip mats underneath heavier items to help keep them in place. Double-check that nothing is leaning on the slate and that accessories are tightly boxed and positioned to avoid collisions.
A well-secured load reduces the risk of damage during sudden stops or sharp turns and makes unloading much safer and easier.
Make your interstate move as stress-free as possible with us at VMove. Trust our professional interstate movers to handle your home or business relocation seamlessly. Call us today at 02 7201 9367
Step 4: Reassembling and Levelling Your Billiard Table
Accurate reassembly and correct levelling are essential steps to restore your pool table’s playability. Following an ordered process for each step will help you avoid mistakes and keep your table in top condition.
Setting Up the Base Frame
Begin by placing the base frame in its designated position, ideally on a level floor. Use the assembly hardware kept during disassembly, organising nuts, bolts, and screws to match their original locations.
Attach the legs securely using a socket wrench. Tighten each bolt firmly, but avoid over-tightening to prevent wood or metal damage.
Check the alignment of the legs using a spirit level (sometimes called a carpenter’s level). Adjust the legs individually with levellers or add shims underneath if the frame is uneven. This base setup is crucial, as an unlevelled frame will compromise the rest of the table’s alignment. Double-check all fixings before moving to the next step.
Aligning and Securing the Slate
Carefully position the slate pieces onto the frame, starting with the centrepiece if your table is in three parts. Use a spirit level lengthwise and widthwise across each slate to check for high or low spots.
Apply shims to correct any unevenness, adjusting until the surface is mathematically the same level. Once level, fasten the slate to the frame with screws, working from the centre outward.
Fill slate seams with beeswax or a specialist slate filler, smoothing it out for a flush playfield. Use a straightedge to ensure the filled joints are even and do not interfere with play. Allow the filler to set completely before continuing.
Re-felting and Finishing Touches
Lay the cloth felt over the slate, stretching it evenly from end to end. Secure one short end first with a stapler or adhesive, keeping the felt taut to prevent wrinkles.
Smooth the cloth with your hands as you move along the edges, continuing to pull tight and staple or glue the opposite side. Use a trimming knife to cut away any excess felt, taking care around pocket openings.
Reattach the cushions and pockets using the hardware set aside earlier. Tighten each bolt and screw so all components are flush with the table’s surface. Give the table a final wipe-down before use, checking for stray staples or loose threads that might affect gameplay.
Safety Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Your Pool Table
Moving a pool table presents unique physical challenges and risks of damage. Using the right safety measures and techniques will protect both you and your pool table from costly mistakes or injury.
Always Ensure Personal Safety
Pool tables are exceptionally heavy, often weighing several hundred kilograms. Attempting to lift or manoeuvre one without enough help can lead to serious injuries, such as muscle strains or back problems. Enlist at least three or four physically capable people to assist.
Always wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and use gloves to protect your hands from sharp parts and splinters. When lifting, bend your knees, not your back, and lift with your legs. Use equipment like moving dollies or furniture sliders to reduce the risk of dropping or mishandling parts.
Keep your work area clear of obstacles to prevent trips and falls. Take breaks as needed and communicate with your team to coordinate every step. Never rush, especially when moving heavy components.
Preventing Damage While Moving Your Pool Table
Disassembly is essential; do not attempt to move the table in one piece. Remove the pockets, rails, felt, and legs in sequence, keeping all screws and hardware organised in labelled bags or containers. This method prevents undue stress on the frame and mitigates the risk of breaking the slate.
Wrap each part, especially the slate, with moving blankets or thick padding. Use foam or soft fabric to cover sharp edges and corners, which helps protect both your table and your home during transport. Secure the slate horizontally and ensure it is fully supported with no overhanging edges.
Avoid dragging components, especially on hard surfaces, to prevent scratches or chips. When reassembling, handle the felt gently and avoid creasing or tearing. A checklist can be helpful to track parts as you dismantle and pack everything.
Recognising When to Hire Professional Movers
Sometimes, just knowing how to move a pool table is not enough. Moving a pool table over stairs, through tight hallways, or over long distances is risky, and you might be debating whether you should hire removalist services or do the move yourself.
Our advice? If you lack experience or proper equipment, hiring professional removalists can prevent costly mistakes. Specialists have the right tools and knowledge to disassemble, move, and re-level the table accurately.
Professional pool table movers carry insurance, so if any damage does occur, repairs or replacements are often covered. If your table is antique, custom-built, or particularly large, expert help is highly recommended due to the increased risk of breakage.
Weigh up the value of your time, the potential for injury, and the risk of damage. Often, the cost of hiring a pool table moving service is lower than the expense of repairs or replacement parts. If unsure, get a few quotes and compare them to the logistical challenges you face.
Let Vmove Handle Your Pool Table Move with Care
At Vmove, we specialise in safely disassembling, transporting, and reassembling pool tables of all types. Our trained professionals handle every component with care to prevent damage and ensure your table is perfectly level and ready to play. Don’t risk injury or costly repairs by moving pool tables alone. Trust Vmove’s pool table removalists to make your move hassle-free and secure.
Book us today or get a free quote and discover why Vmove is the smart choice for pool table relocation. You can also use our removal cost calculator for free before you book our services for your convenience.
