Move a Pool Table – Follow These Steps to Keep Your Table Safe
Step 1: Prepare the Space and Pathway
Before moving day, measure doorways, hallways, and staircases to ensure the table’s components will fit through without scraping walls or trim. Clear the path of obstacles and protect flooring with heavy-duty blankets or floor runners.
Step 2: Disassemble the Table
Unlike smaller furniture, a pool table can’t simply be lifted and carried. The legs, rails, and slate must be removed. This typically involves:
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Removing pockets and rails
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Carefully taking off the felt without tearing it
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Unscrewing and lifting each slate piece (often three sections)
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Detaching the frame and legs
Because the slate is heavy and brittle, always lift with multiple people and avoid sudden movements.
Step 3: Protect Each Component
Wrap the rails, legs, and frame in moving blankets to prevent scratches. Slate pieces should be wrapped in thick padding and kept upright to avoid cracking under their own weight. Felt should be rolled, not folded, to prevent creases.
Step 4: Use Proper Equipment
A dolly or furniture sliders can help maneuver heavy components without straining your back. If stairs are involved, specialized moving straps or a stair-climbing dolly may be needed.
Step 5: Reassembly and Leveling
Once the table reaches its new location, reassembly must be precise. Slate sections should be realigned and leveled using shims, with seams filled before reattaching the felt. Improper leveling can lead to uneven rolls and a frustrating game experience.
Move a Pool Table – When to Call a Professional
While it’s possible to move a pool table yourself with the right tools and helpers, hiring a professional ensures every piece is handled correctly. Experienced movers have the training to disassemble, transport, and reassemble your table without risking damage—saving you time, stress, and potential repair costs.
