Moving a Pool Table? Here’s What You Need to Know

Shifting a pool table takes more care than dragging a couch down a hallway. These tables can weigh upwards of 800 pounds, with heavy slate slabs, sensitive felt, and precision rails—so a little planning goes a long way in avoiding costly damage. Whether you’re just rearranging furniture or moving across town, here’s a straightforward guide to get your table safely from point A to point B.

Pool Table Anatomy at a Glance

Before you start unscrewing bolts, it helps to know what you’re handling:

• Slate Playing Surface: Usually three pieces of stone, each weighing 150–250 lbs.

• Felt Cloth: The cloth bonded to slate; even small tears can ruin game play.

• Cushion Rails: Hardwood rails with rubber bumpers that give the balls their bounce.

• Legs & Frame: A sturdy support structure that keeps everything level.

• Pockets: Leather or plastic cups fastened around the table’s corners and sides.

Damaging any one of those parts—cracking slate or tearing felt—can turn a premium table into an expensive headache.

Planning Your Move: Step by Step

1. Measure Your Route

   • Record the table’s length, width, and height (including pockets).

   • Map the path: doorways, hallways, staircases—watch for tight spots.

2. Prep the Playing Surface

   • Remove balls, cues, and accessories—pack them separately.

   • Cover the felt with moving blankets or quilted pads, then wrap with plastic stretch film to keep out dust and moisture.

3. Disassemble Carefully

   • Rails: Unbolt cushion rails and label each piece (e.g., “North Rail”).

   • Pockets: Unscrew and bag all screws and leather or plastic components.

   • Slate: With at least four strong helpers (or a slate dolly), lift each section straight up—never drag it across the frame.

Essential Tools & Equipment

• High-Capacity Dolly (600+ lbs) for slate sections

• Moving Blankets & Quilted Pads to protect wood and cloth

• Ratchet Straps to secure components in the truck

• Socket & Allen Wrenches for unbolting rails and pockets

• Bubble Level & Shims for precise reassembly

Renting or buying the right gear now will save you repair bills later.

DIY vs. Professional Movers

• DIY

  • Pros: Lower cost, full control over every step.

  • Cons: High risk of injury or damage; needs at least four coordinated helpers; you’re on the hook for any repairs.

• Specialized Pool-Table Movers

  • Pros: Trained in safe disassembly/reassembly, insured against damage, equipped with slate-handling tools.

  • Cons: Typically $200–$500 for a local move—but often well worth the peace of mind.

For oversize tables, complex staircases, or long distances, professionals can actually save you time and money.

Budgeting & Insurance

• Labor: $50–$100 per mover per hour.

• Equipment Rental: Dolly and padding can add $50–$100.

• Insurance: Confirm movers carry “inland marine” or equivalent transit coverage.

• Contingency: Set aside 5–10% of table value for unexpected repairs (felt stretching, rail refastening).

Check your homeowner’s policy or an add-on rider to make sure high-value items like pool tables are covered during the move.

Reassembly & Leveling

1. Slate Placement:Position each slate piece on its frame. Use thin rubber shims between sections to eliminate any gaps.

2. Rail Attachment: Bolt cushion rails back in place. Test the rebound by dropping a ball—adjust until it’s uniform.

3. Felt Inspection:If the felt creased or loosened, consider a professional re-stretch.

4. Fine-Tune Level: With a bubble level, adjust the adjustable feet or add shims under legs. Aim for a tolerance of about 0.002 inches across the whole surface.

A perfectly leveled table not only plays better but also protects your slate and rails from stress.

Maintenance Tips After the Move

• Brush the Felt Weekly with a proper billiard brush to remove chalk and dust.

• Check Rail Bolts Quarterly to ensure they stay snug.

• Maintain Humidity around 40–60% to keep wood parts from warping or felt from shrinking.

With a little routine care, your pool table will stay in top condition for decades.

Bottom Line
Moving a pool table demands respect for its heavy, delicate parts. By measuring your path, disassembling methodically, using the right equipment—or hiring pros—you’ll protect your investment and ensure many years of smooth, precise play in its new home.