A Guide to Moving Your Pool Table (and Other Large Items)

Ah, moving day. A time for fresh beginnings, exciting adventures and the looming dread of manoeuvring your beloved pool table through a doorway the size of a hamster wheel.

While pool tables are the ultimate game night heroes, they can be right stinkers to relocate. But, with a bit of planning, a dash of ingenuity, and this handy guide, you can conquer the moving blues and have your pool table ready to rack up some wins in your new digs.

But, this knowledge bomb isn’t just for pool table wranglers. We’ll also be equipping you with the skills to tackle other bulky furniture foes, from grand pianos to fridge behemoths.

Step 1: Scouting the area

Before the packing tape flies and the bubble wrap pops, it’s time to gather intel.

Grab your trusty measuring tape and meticulously measure both your bulky furniture and the doorways and hallways it needs to conquer.

Is your pool table wider than the front door? Does your piano resemble a runaway wardrobe and threaten to get stuck on every corner? If things are looking like a game of Tetris gone wrong, don’t despair! Consider enlisting the help of professional piano and pool table removalists. We have seen it all, from oversized ottomans to antique chaise lounges, and have the muscle and expertise to get the job done efficiently.

Step 2: Dismantle whenever possible

Many large items, like pool tables, can be partially disassembled for easier transport. This not only makes them lighter and more manageable but also helps protect delicate parts during the bumpy car ride. For your pool table, this might involve detaching the legs, rails, and pockets. Consult your owner’s manual or enlist a handy friend to tackle this step. Remember, even the most skilled cueist needs a capable wingman sometimes.

For other bulky furniture, assess what can be removed. Pianos often have detachable legs and music stands. Fridges might have removable shelves and drawers. The key is to identify anything that can be taken apart and reassembled later, making the transportation process smoother and reducing the risk of damage.

Step 3: Wrap your bulky items

Whether it’s the polished wood of a piano or the delicate legs of a chaise lounge, invest in proper protection. Bubble wrap, furniture pads, and packing blankets are your best friends here. Imagine your precious furniture pieces as royalty – they deserve a first-class carriage!

Wrap them with love (and a healthy amount of padding) to keep them safe from bumps, scrapes, and the occasional rogue packing box. Here are some specific tips for different furniture items:

• Pool table: The slate is the kingpin (and the heaviest part) of the pool table. Treat it with the respect it deserves! Layer bubble wraps generously over the slate. Don’t forget to wrap the rails, legs, and pockets individually as well.
• Piano: Pianos are particularly susceptible to temperature changes and moisture. Invest in specialist piano movers if possible, as having the expertise and equipment to handle these delicate instruments safely should be one of the requirements when moving heavy and large items. If you’re tackling the move yourself, wrap the entire piano in protective furniture pads and secure them with packing tape. Consider using climate-controlled storage for short-term piano housing if your move involves significant temperature shifts.

• Fridge: Before you move your fridge, defrost it completely and allow it to dry thoroughly. Do not defrost your fridge less than one week before moving as water in the trays can cause issues. Remove any removable shelves and drawers, and secure them with tape to prevent them from rattling around during transport. Wrap the exterior of the fridge with furniture pads or blankets to protect the finish. Secure the doors shut with tape to prevent them from swinging open during the move.

Step 4: Ask for help

Let’s be honest, these bulky beasts are heavy. Like, really heavy. Don’t attempt to be a superhero and lift a piano on your own – you’ll likely end up with a sore back. So, recruit some strong mates to help you safely manoeuvre your furniture. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work (and prevents injuries). Here are some additional tips for a smooth furniture move:

• Plan the route: Identify any tight corners, narrow hallways, or doorways that might pose a challenge. Clear the path of any obstacles like rugs, furniture, or potted plants that could hinder the move.
• Lifting techniques: When lifting heavy furniture, always bend at the knees and keep your back straight. Never lift alone – have your helpers positioned on opposite sides of the furniture for balanced carrying. Use furniture dollies or moving straps whenever possible to make the process easier and safer.
• Mind the doors: This might seem obvious, but doorways are the arch-nemeses of bulky furniture. If the doorway seems a bit too snug, consider removing the door temporarily to create extra space. Or have someone hold the door steady while the furniture is being moved through the opening.

Step 5: Put the pieces back together

You’ve conquered the move, the bulky furniture has (hopefully) survived the journey, and now it’s time to put the puzzle back together. If the thought of reassembling your pool or piano makes you want to curl up in a fetal position, don’t worry! Here are some options:

• Consult the manual: Your owner’s manual should have detailed instructions for reassembling your furniture. Dust it off, grab a cup of tea, and follow the steps carefully.
• Online tutorials: The internet is a treasure trove of information, and furniture reassembly is no exception. Search for online tutorials specific to your furniture make and model. These can be a lifesaver, providing visual guides and step-by-step instructions.
• Professional help: If the thought of reassembly fills you with dread, or if the furniture is particularly complex, consider hiring professional furniture assemblers. They have the experience and expertise to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Additional tips

• Moving insurance: Consider purchasing moving insurance for valuable furniture pieces like pianos or antique furniture. This will provide financial protection in case of any damage during the move.
• Take pictures during disassembly: Future you will thank you when they’re not left staring at a pile of furniture parts wondering which bit goes where. Label the disassembled pieces with masking tape and a corresponding number for even easier reassembly.

Remember, moving doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With preparation and the right tools (both physical and mental), you can conquer those bulky furniture challenges and settle into your new home with ease.

But, do you know that you don’t have to deal with all this hassle when you hire professional movers? Our national award-winning training system equips our operators with the skills and knowledge to move pianos and pool/billiard tables using specialised equipment. Call us at +1300 642 900 for enquiries!

For more tips and guides on moving, we wrote a detailed guide on house moving. You can also check out our moving hints and blog!

Featured image by Steven Van Elk