Moving a pool table is no small feat. From disassembling the table to fitting through tight spaces, each step must be executed carefully for success. If this task seems complex, we have covered it for you here.
In this guide, we'll cover the essential steps for transporting a pool table. With some planning and effective techniques, you can quickly tackle the move and set your table up. Let's begin!
1. Gather the Right Moving Supplies
Before moving a pool table, gather all necessary moving supplies and materials. Doing this will facilitate an easy move while protecting it from possible damages during transit. Here's what's needed:
● Packing tape
● Furniture dollies
● Moving blankets
● Bubble wrap or padding
● Screwdriver set and wrench
Gather all the supplies necessary for moving day in advance so you are fully ready.
2. Rent a Suitable Moving Truck
No regular car can safely move a disassembled pool table. You need an industrial moving truck that can accommodate large and heavy items. When choosing a truck:
● Measure your table parts to ensure the truck size fits the base and the slate.
● Opt for a truck with a loading ramp to load heavier pieces.
● Book the truck in advance to avoid delays.
Renting a truck gives you more space and flexibility when moving all of your goods at once, saving you time by eliminating unnecessary delays!
3. Recruit Plenty of Helpers
Pool tables weigh hundreds of pounds each and require at least four or six people to move them safely. Therefore, be sure to:
● Plan the process and assign tasks to each helper.
● Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes for grip and safety.
● Communicate to stay in sync to avoid mishaps.
● Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.
Having enough hands on deck makes the process smoother and prevents damage to the table or injury to you.
4. Measure Doorways, Staircases, and Hallways
Before moving your pool table, all doorways, staircases, and hallways along the route must be accurately measured.
Begin by measuring doorway height and width before considering tight turns in stairwell dimensions. Planning ahead allows accurate measurements and the avoidance of unexpected obstacles to ensure an easier and safer move for both you and your pool table!
5. Disassemble the Pool Table
Disassembling the pool table is an intricate process, so follow these steps carefully:
Remove the Ball Pockets: Start by removing the table's six-ball pockets. If they are stapled, use a staple remover. If they're screwed in, use a screwdriver. Be gentle to avoid damaging the pockets.
Detach the Side Rails: Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts and secure the side rails. Once unscrewed, carefully lift the rails off. Store the bolts and screws separately in labeled bags.
Remove the Felt: Gently remove the felt from the table. If it's stapled down, use the staple remover to avoid ripping the felt. Fold and store it safely for reassembly.
Remove the Slate: The slate is extremely heavy, with a one-piece slate weighing over 400 pounds. You'll need several helpers to lift and remove it. Use a power drill to unscrew the slate from the table. Once the screws are out, carefully lift the slate with the help of your team.
Disassemble the Table Frame and Legs: After the slate is removed, focus on the table's main body. You may need to flip the table on its side or upside down to detach the legs. Use your tools to remove each leg carefully.
6. Protect Each Part and Load the Truck
As part of moving a pool table, it is crucial to protect each component properly. Wrap the slate pieces, legs, and rails in thick moving blankets to reduce scratching or other forms of damage. Secure these blankets using tape or straps if possible. Store smaller parts like screws and bolts in labeled plastic bags to stay organized without losing pieces in transit.
Start loading heavy components, such as slate, first. Use moving straps to secure larger components inside the truck for safe transport. Ensure everything remains secured to ensure a successful move.
7. Reassemble the Pool Table
Once the pool table has reached its destination, it's time to reassemble it step by step.
Reattach the Legs: Start by positioning the table frame in the room and attaching the legs. Once the legs are secured, you may need help flipping the table upright.
Install the Slate: With help, lift the slate pieces back onto the table frame. Use a power drill to reattach the screws, making sure the slate is level. You can use a carpenter's level to check the balance before moving on.
Lay the Felt: Carefully lay the felt back over the slate, smoothing out any wrinkles. If it was stapled, re-staple the felt along the edges using a staple gun.
Attach the Side Rails: Reattach the side rails using the bolts you removed earlier. Make sure each rail is securely fastened to the table frame.
Reinstall the Ball Pockets: Finally, reinstall the ball pockets using screws or staples, depending on how they were initially attached.
8. Calibrate and Level the Pool Table
After assembly, ensuring the pool table is properly leveled is important. Use a carpenter's level to check the table from multiple angles. Adjust the legs by adding shims or using built-in leveling mechanisms if you notice any unevenness. Take your time to make incremental adjustments until the table is perfectly balanced.
9. Final Inspection and Touch-up
Once your table has been assembled and leveled, do a ͏final inspection. Check all screws and bolts are tightened securely and that the table remains stable. Examine t͏he fe͏lt f͏o͏r an͏y ͏wri͏nkles or͏ impe͏rfecti͏ons, smo͏o͏thing it out as n͏ee͏ded. This is also the perfect opportunity to clean the felt and the table surface to ensure it's ͏in top condition before you start playing.
Find the Process Overwhelming? Hire Professional Pool Table Movers Near You
Moving a pool table may ͏seem daunting ͏and time-consuming, which is understandable given all its parts ͏to disassemble, lift, and reassemble. So rather than doing everything yourself, consider looking for a pool table ͏moves near you and allowing the professionals to handle your tasks.
At All American Billiards, our expert team specializes in safely and efficiently moving pool tables. From disassembly to reassembling, our experienced crew works efficiently so your table arrives undamaged. Save yourself the hassle, and let us handle the heavy work!
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