How to move a pool table is not the same as shifting regular household furniture. A pool table is heavy, bulky, and often made with slate that can crack or get damaged if not handled correctly. Unlike a couch or table, moving a pool table requires careful disassembly, special tools, and extra hands to ensure safety. If you try to simply move pool table without preparation, you risk damaging the table, your floors, or even injuring yourself. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps, costs, and expert tips to make the process smoother and safer.
What is The Weight of a Pool Table?
A standard pool table is much heavier than most people expect. On average, pool tables weigh between 600 to 1,000 pounds, depending on the type and size.
Standard pool table weight range
- 7-foot tables: 600–700 lbs
- 8-foot tables: 700–900 lbs
- 9-foot tables: 900–1,200 lbs
Factors affecting weight
- Size – Larger tables naturally weigh more.
- Materials – Tables with solid hardwood frames are heavier than those made with softer woods.
- Slate vs. Wood – Slate tables, which are the most common for serious play, are significantly heavier than wood alternatives. Slate pieces can weigh up to 250 pounds each.
Why weight matters when planning a move
Knowing the weight helps you plan for manpower, tools, and safety. A pool table isn’t something you can just lift and carry like a chair. Without the right preparation, the risk of damage or injury increases, which is why understanding its weight is the first step before you move a pool table.
Tools And Equipment You’ll Need
When moving a slate pool table, you’ll need more than just muscle power. Gather the right tools first: screwdrivers for removing rails, a staple remover for the felt, moving blankets to protect the parts, and sturdy dollies for transporting the heavy slate and frame. Having the proper equipment makes the process smoother and prevents costly damage.
Safety considerations before lifting
Pool tables are bulky and awkward to handle, especially slate models. Always lift with multiple people to avoid injury, and wear protective gloves to improve grip. Never try to move the slate in one piece it’s extremely heavy and fragile. For expert assistance, this is one of the main reasons why a lot of individuals pick a pool table moving company.
Preparing the moving space
Before you start disassembly, prepare the area. Clear all walkways, measure doorways, and check the path to ensure the table parts will fit through without force. A clear path helps prevent mishaps and damage to your walls or floors, whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a pool table moving firm.
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How To Move a Pool Table in Seven Easy Steps
Moving a pool table may sound overwhelming, but breaking it down into clear steps makes the process manageable. Here’s a simple guide to help you safely move pool table without damaging it.
Step 1: Gather tools and protective gear
Before you start, collect everything you need—screwdrivers, a staple remover, moving blankets, a power drill, and gloves. Having tools ready will save you time and stress.
Step 2: Remove the pockets
Detach the pockets carefully with a screwdriver. Keep screws and parts in a labeled bag so nothing gets lost during reassembly.
Step 3: Detach the rails
Unscrew the side rails and set them aside on moving blankets to avoid scratches or dents.
Step 4: Take out the felt carefully
Gently remove the felt using a staple remover. Pull slowly to avoid ripping it since replacing felt can be costly.
Step 5: Remove the slates (heaviest part)
The slate pieces are the heaviest and most delicate part of the pool table. Handle each slate separately with multiple people to prevent cracking or injuries.
Step 6: Move the frame and slates separately
Carry the frame and slate pieces individually using dollies or lifting straps. This reduces weight load and lowers the risk of damage.
Step 7: Reassemble the pool table in the new location
Once everything is moved, carefully reassemble the frame, slates, felt, rails, and pockets. Level the table to ensure smooth gameplay.
At Chamomile Go, we provide safe, reliable, and affordable moving solutions tailored to your needs. Our team specializes in handling everything from heavy furniture to delicate items like pool tables. With our professional moving services in Sherman Oaks, we make every move smooth, stress-free, and efficient.
Why Is Moving a Pool Table Yourself Not Always a Good Idea?
While many people consider moving their pool table on their own to save money, the risks often outweigh the benefits. Attempting moving a slate pool table without professional help can lead to several problems.
Risk of injury due to heavy lifting
Pool tables are extremely heavy, and the slate alone can weigh a few hundred pounds. Without the right lifting techniques and enough manpower, you could end up with back strains, pulled muscles, or worse injuries.
Chance of damaging the slate or frame
Slate is not only heavy but also fragile. One wrong move can cause cracks or chips that are costly to repair. The wooden frame and rails are also prone to scratches or breakage if not handled properly.
Common mistakes DIY movers make
Many DIY movers try to move a pool table in one piece, which almost always leads to damage. Others forget to label hardware, making reassembly stressful. Some undere
The Benefits of Hiring an Expert to Move Your Pool Table
Professional equipment and expertise
Specialists arrive with the right tools and knowledge to handle every part of a billiard table. From disassembly to reassembly, their training ensures the job is done correctly the first time.
Time-saving and stress-free process
Instead of spending hours figuring out each step, professionals can complete the work quickly and efficiently. This means less hassle for you and more time to focus on enjoying your new space.
Protecting your investment
A quality billiard table is a big investment, and improper handling can cause costly damage. Experts know how to protect both the table and your home whether it’s preventing scratches on hardwood floors or avoiding damage to door frames.
Insurance and liability coverage
If something goes wrong during the move, professional services are typically insured. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you won’t be left covering expensive repairs or replacements on your own.
Cost To Move a Pool Table
The cost to move a pool table can vary widely depending on location, distance, and the complexity of the job. On average, hiring professionals for a local move ranges between $300 to $600, while long-distance moves can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 or more.
Factors affecting cost
- Distance – Moving within the same city costs less compared to transporting your table to another state or long-distance location.
- Number of slates – A one-piece slate is harder to handle and may increase labor costs, while a three-piece slate requires more time for careful disassembly and reassembly.
- Reassembly requirements – Some movers charge extra for reassembling, leveling, or replacing worn felt.
- Accessibility – Stairs, narrow hallways, and tight doorways can add extra charges due to increased difficulty.
Hidden Costs of DIY vs. Hiring Experts
While moving on your own may seem cheaper, hidden costs quickly add up. You may need to rent dollies, moving blankets, and even a truck. If the slate cracks or the frame gets damaged, repairs or replacements can far exceed what you’d pay professionals. Hiring experts eliminates these risks and provides peace of mind.
Conclusion
Moving a pool table is not like moving regular furniture it requires planning, strength, and precision. Safety should always come first, and hiring professionals helps protect both your table and your home. At Chamomile Go, we combine expertise, proper equipment, and reliable service to ensure your move is stress-free. Whether local or long-distance, we treat your pool table with the care it deserves. Ready for a safe and hassle-free move? Contact Chamomile Go today and let our experts handle your pool table with precision and care!
FAQs
Can I Move A Pool Table Without Taking It Apart?
Most pool tables are too heavy and bulky to move in one piece. Disassembling the table into pockets, rails, felt, slate, and frame is the safest way to prevent damage.
What Is The Best Way To Move A Slate Pool Table?
The best method is to carefully remove each slate piece and transport them separately. Slate is heavy and fragile, so at least 3–4 people are recommended for lifting.
How Many People Are Needed To Move A Pool Table?
It usually takes at least 3 to 5 people to safely move a pool table, depending on its size and weight. Professional movers often bring a team for efficiency.
How Much Does It Cost To Move A Pool Table?
The cost to move a pool table ranges from $300 to $600 for local moves, while long-distance or complicated relocations may go over $1,000.
Can I Move A Pool Table Upstairs Or Downstairs?
Yes, but it’s risky. Slate tables are very heavy, and carrying them on stairs can cause injuries or damage. Hiring experts is highly recommended for multi-level moves.
