How to Move a Pool Table

Ah, the mighty pool table: a centrepiece of games rooms, a symbol of strategy and skill, and an absolute beast to move. If you’ve ever looked at your pool table and thought, “How hard could it be?” let us stop you right there.

Moving a pool table is not like dragging a couch or shifting a coffee table. It’s heavy, delicate, and more complex than you might expect. Whether you’re relocating across the street or across the city, moving a billiard table demands planning, patience, and the right tools.

But don’t worry, we’ve got your back with this step-by-step guide. And if you decide it’s all a bit much, the Harris Movers local moving team is always here to take the heavy lifting off your hands.

Should You Move a Pool Table by Yourself?

Here’s the honest truth: you can move a pool table by yourself … but that doesn’t mean you should. Unless you have a crew of strong friends and an uncanny talent for disassembling furniture, the DIY route is going to be tough and possibly dangerous. These tables are bulky, oddly shaped, and easy to damage (not to mention easy to injure yourself on if you’re not careful).

That said, if cost is a major concern and you’re determined to do it solo, this guide will help you learn how to move a pool table with care. Just be sure to rope in a few mates, clear your schedule, and keep safety front of mind.

Moving Slate vs. Non-Slate Pool Tables

Before you start hauling anything, figure out what kind of pool table you have. Non-slate pool tables are lighter and generally made of MDF or particleboard.

They’re less expensive and can often be moved in one piece, or with minimal disassembly. If this is you, congrats! Your move just got a lot easier.

Slate pool tables, on the other hand, are the real deal. They feature a heavy slab (or slabs) of slate beneath the felt, which is what gives the table its flat, stable playing surface.

These tables must be disassembled to move them safely. So for the rest of this guide, we’re talking about how to move a slate pool table.

Tools You’ll Need to Transport Your Pool Table

If you’re set on moving a pool table yourself, gear up like a pro. Here’s what you’ll need:

Power drill or screwdriver (you’ll be unscrewing a lot)
Staple remover or flathead screwdriver (for the felt)
Moving blankets or padding
Bubble wrap
Heavy-duty straps
Labelled zip-lock bags (for screws and bolts)
Furniture dolly (for legs or frame)
A strong vehicle (like a ute, van or truck)

How to Move a Slate Pool Table

1. Remove the Pockets and Rails

When moving a billiard table, always start at the top. Carefully remove the pockets. Most are either bolted or stapled in. Then, unscrew the rails from the table. Keep the bolts in clearly labelled bags so you know what goes where later. This part can be fiddly, so take your time and try not to damage the wood.

2. Take Off the Felt

Next up: the felt. If it’s glued on, you’ll need to peel it slowly to avoid tearing. If it’s stapled, use your staple remover or screwdriver to lift it off carefully. The goal here is to preserve it for reinstallation. Fold it neatly and place it in a clean, dry container or bag.

Pro tip: don’t crumple the felt unless you want wrinkles that even a hot iron can’t fix.

3. Detach the Slate

Here’s the big one. Most pool tables have three slate pieces, each weighing 80–150kg. Some tables have a single solid slab (which is even heavier).

Unscrew the slate from the table frame, then—with help—lift and carefully remove each piece. Wrap each slab in a moving blanket and secure it with straps or bubble wrap. These need serious padding; slate cracks easily under pressure.

Also, slate edges are sharp, so handle with care (gloves aren’t a bad idea).

4. Remove the Legs

Once the slate is out, flip the table frame upside down (with help again!) and remove the legs. Depending on the design, the legs may be screwed in or bolted. Again, keep all hardware safely stashed and labelled.

5. Load Pool Table Parts into Moving Vehicle

This part is all about precision and padding. Don’t just chuck the pieces in the back of a ute and hope for the best.

Lay down blankets or padding in your vehicle, and place each part gently and securely. Make sure the slate is laid flat and can’t shift in transit. Tie everything down tightly.

Oh, and take your time. Loading carelessly can undo all your careful work.

6. Reassemble the Pool Table

Once you’re at the new location, it’s time to do everything in reverse. Legs go on first, then frame, then slate, then felt, then rails and pockets. This is where your labelled hardware bags will save you hours of guesswork.

If you’re not confident about re-levelling the table or reinstalling the felt correctly, you might want to call in a professional to finish the job. A misaligned table can ruin your game and your back.

Need Help Moving Your Slate Pool Table? Let Harris Movers Handle the Heavy-Lifting

Let’s be real: moving a pool table by yourself isn’t a Saturday morning job. It’s a serious undertaking that requires time, tools, and a small army. If you’d rather spend your weekend lining up shots instead of lifting slate, Harris Movers can help.

We’re experienced in moving everything from grand pianos to pool tables—carefully, professionally, and without the stress. Our team has the tools, vehicles, and expertise to make your move smooth from start to finish. Whether you’re heading across town or just down the block, we’re ready to do the heavy lifting for you.

Ready to move your pool table? Contact us or get a quote today and let us chalk up the win on your behalf.