What should I look for when hiring pool table movers?
When hiring a pool table moving service, make sure you complete the following steps:
Verify their license and insurance: A mover should have liability insurance to cover potential damage when handling slate tables. Some areas may require special licensing for heavy furniture transport, so be sure to do your research.
Get several estimates: A quote should include the cost of disassembly, transportation, reassembly and leveling. Some movers may charge extra for stairs, tight spaces or long-distance moves. Ask your mover to include all fees in your quote.
Read their reviews: Keep an eye out for complaints about cracked slate, lost hardware or improper reassembly. Also, look for high ratings and mentions of careful handling and accurate leveling.
Look at their portfolios: Moving a pool table incorrectly can permanently damage the frame or slate. Try to choose a mover who has relocated similar models and brands.
Find out if they have guarantees: A professional mover should guarantee proper leveling and reassembly. If the table shifts within a set period, they should offer free adjustments.
Ask important questions: For example, how many pool tables have they moved? Do they use the three-piece slate method and how do they protect slates? What tools and techniques do they use to ensure perfect leveling?
For more tips, visit Thumbtack's Smart Hiring Page.
How much does it cost to hire a pool table moving service?
The national average cost of a pool table moving service ranges from around $270 to $590,* according to Thumbtack data.
There are several factors that might impact the cost of hiring movers, including:
Size and weight: Larger, heavier pool tables typically cost more to move.
Accessibility: A pool table moving service may charge more to move a pool table on an upper or basement floor where it may need to be brought through a flight of stairs.
Design: Pool tables with large pieces of solid slate may cost more to move because they often require extra precautions. Pool tables that feature more complex ball returns or other features that are difficult to disassemble could cost more.
Distance: Pool table movers will typically charge more to haul a pool table over longer distances.
You might be able to save money on your project with these tips:
Disassembly: Handle as much of the disassembly as you can yourself.
Accessibility: Do what you can to make it easier for the pool table movers to move your pool table, like clearing pathways and moving furniture out of the way.
Get several quotes: Comparing more than one estimate can help you avoid overpaying for pool table moving services.
*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.
Why should I hire a professional to move my pool table?
Some of the most significant benefits of hiring professionals to move your pool table include the following:
Prevent damage: Pool tables are heavy and delicate, but professionals know how to disassemble, transport and reassemble them. Hiring a pro may reduce the chances of damaging the slate, frame or felt.
Ensure proper leveling: A poorly moved table can become uneven, affecting gameplay. Movers typically have specialized tools they can use to level it correctly.
Reduce risk of injury: Without proper techniques, lifting and maneuvering a pool table can cause injuries. Professionals know to handle the heavy lifting safely.
Protect your home: Moving a pool table without experience can lead to scratched floors, dented walls or broken door frames.
Hiring experienced movers ensures your pool table is safely and correctly relocated.
How do professionals move pool tables?
In most cases, a professional will take the following steps when moving a pool table:
Remove pockets and rails. These are often fastened with staples or screws.
Remove the cloth: Pool table movers should preserve the cloth by removing all the staples around the outer edge rather than cutting it.
Unbolt the slate: The slate typically separates into two or three pieces after being removed from the frame. Each piece is heavy and fragile.
Separate frame from legs: Once the legs are removed, the pool table will be completely disassembled.
Wrap everything: Pool table movers tend to use bubble wrap and moving blankets to protect the slate and wood during transit.
Load the truck: The heaviest pieces are often loaded onto a dolly to safely move them to the truck. All pieces are usually tied down inside the truck to prevent damage.
How long does it take to move a pool table?
Typically, it will take 2 to 4 hours for a professional to complete your pool table move. However, there are a few factors that may impact the timeline, including:
Distance of the move. Short moves within the same location may not require disassembly. While longer distances mean the pool table will have to be disassembled, moved and reassembled: a much lengthier process.
Manufacturer and model. Every pool table manufacturer and model has different designs, so disassembling one model may be quicker and easier than another. Some models have more pieces, others have more fasteners, and so on.
Weight: Wood pool tables can weigh anywhere from 180 to 800 pounds. Slate pool tables can weigh 500 to 2,500 pounds. The weight may impact the number of movers and tools needed to safely move it — all of which can impact the timeline.
Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.