Pool tables aren’t just heavy—they’re delicate, precise, and expensive to repair if mishandled. Whether you’re relocating within Los Angeles or moving cross-country, understanding how to move a pool table safely is crucial. Affordable Moving LLC specializes in pool table moving services in LA, ensuring your prized game room centerpiece arrives in perfect condition.
Why Moving a Pool Table Is Different
Unlike regular furniture, a pool table can weigh 600 to 1,000 pounds and consists of multiple fragile components:
- Slate bed (the heavy stone surface)
- Cushions and rails
- Felt covering
- Legs and frame
Each part requires careful disassembly, packing, and reassembly to maintain the table’s balance and playability. One wrong move can damage the slate or ruin the felt.
DIY vs. Professional Pool Table Movers
While some homeowners consider a DIY move, the risks are high:
- Risk of injury: Pool tables are too heavy for untrained movers.
- Damage potential: Dropping slate can crack it beyond repair.
- Re-leveling issues: Even if you move it, getting it leveled again requires professional tools.
Step-by-Step: How Professionals Move a Pool Table
Moving a pool table is a complex process that goes far beyond simply lifting and loading.
1. Pre-Move Assessment & Planning
Before touching the table, our movers evaluate the layout of your home, including doorways, staircases, tight hallways, and potential obstacles. We take measurements and plan the safest route. This prevents costly mistakes like chipped walls, scratched floors, or damaged slate.
2. Careful Disassembly
A pool table can weigh up to 1,000 pounds, so breaking it down into parts is essential:
- Pockets – Leather or plastic pockets are detached carefully to avoid tearing.
- Rails & Cushions – Side rails are unscrewed and labeled for easy reassembly.
- Felt – Depending on condition, the felt is either carefully removed and stored, or replaced with fresh cloth at the customer’s request.
- Slate Bed – The heaviest part, typically 3 separate slabs of slate (150–250 lbs each), is detached with precision tools. Movers lift with specialized equipment to prevent cracks or warping.
- Legs & Frame – The supporting frame and legs are unscrewed and wrapped for protection.
3. Protective Packing
Every component is individually wrapped in padded moving blankets, shrink wrap, or crates:
- Slate pieces are cushioned and secured flat to prevent shifting during transport.
- Felt is rolled or folded to avoid wrinkles.
- Wooden frames are padded to prevent scratches.
This stage is crucial to ensure the table arrives in the same condition it left.
4. Safe Transportation
Our trucks are equipped with lift gates, dollies, and tie-down systems designed for oversized and fragile items. Slate slabs and frame pieces are secured upright or flat, depending on weight distribution. We use air-ride suspension trucks to minimize vibrations that could affect delicate slate leveling.
5. Reassembly at the New Location
Once delivered, we carefully reverse the disassembly process:
- Frame & Legs – Assembled and stabilized.
- Slate Installation – Slabs are placed, aligned, and secured with screws and beeswax or seam filler to create a seamless playing surface.
- Leveling – Using precision tools, we adjust each slate section until the surface is perfectly even. This step ensures your table plays like new.
- Felt Application – The felt is re-stretched tightly across the slate for a smooth finish.
- Rails & Pockets – Rails and cushions are reattached, and pockets secured in place.
6. Final Calibration & Inspection
After reassembly, our movers perform a play-test check to confirm the table is completely level and ready for use. We also clean the surface, polish the frame, and ensure the table looks as good as it plays.
How Much Does It Cost to Move a Pool Table in Los Angeles?
Costs depend on the size of the table, access challenges, and whether re-felting is requested:
- Local pool table moves in LA: $400 – $800 on average
- Moves with stairs or long-distance relocations: $600 – $1,200+
- Re-felting or upgrades: Additional $200 – $500 depending on materials
Affordable Moving LLC provides transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees, so you know exactly what to expect.
Why Choose Affordable Moving LLC for Pool Table Moving in LA?
- Specialized training: Our crews are experienced in heavy and delicate items like pool tables, pianos, and gym equipment.
- Full insurance coverage: Giving you peace of mind for high-value items.
- Modern equipment: Heavy-duty dollies, lifts, and protective gear for safe handling.
- Local expertise: Serving Los Angeles neighborhoods from Hollywood Hills and Sherman Oaks to Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills.
Don’t Risk Your Pool Table—Hire Experts
Moving a pool table isn’t just about muscle—it’s about precision. Whether you’re upgrading your game room in LA or relocating across California, Affordable Moving LLC offers the safe, professional pool table moving service you need.
