Pool table moving checklist
By Pool Table Movers team · Published · Updated
Before a pool table move, measure the table and new room, check access and parking at both addresses, decide whether to recloth, clear the route and book specialists early. On the day, keep the route clear and pets out of the way; afterwards, check the table is level and running true before the crew leaves.
Several weeks before the move
Identify the table. Note the size (6ft, 7ft, 8ft, 9ft or full-size snooker), whether it has a slate bed, and the make if there is a badge. Take photos of the table from each side and of any damage, worn cloth or loose cushions. This helps any mover quote accurately and gives you a record of the condition before the move.
Measure the new room. For comfortable play you generally need around a cue length of clear space on every side of the table. Measure doorways, hallways and stairs on the route into the new room as well. A dismantled table travels in pieces, so access is more about the length of the slate pieces and frame members than the size of the assembled table.
Decide on extras. If the cloth is tired, plan a recloth during the move. If the cushions are dead or the pockets worn, ask about replacements. If the new room is not ready, ask about storage.
Get a quote and book. Specialist movers can be busy around popular moving dates, so book early and confirm the date, time window and what is included.
Access and parking
Check parking at both addresses. A van needs to park as close as possible to the door, and long carries add time. If you are in a permit zone or on a busy road, arrange a visitor permit or parking suspension in advance. Let the mover know about steep drives, gravel paths, steps, gates and narrow side passages.
Think about stairs. Straight staircases are manageable; spiral, winding or very narrow stairs may need extra crew and planning. Let your mover know about basements, lofts, outbuildings and garages so they can plan the right team and equipment.
If you live in a flat, check whether the building has a lift and whether it needs to be booked, and if there are any rules about moving times or protecting communal areas.
The week before
Clear the table of balls, cues, triangles, covers and accessories. Pack cues in a case or tube so they cannot be bent or knocked. Remove any items stored underneath or around the table.
Plan the final position of the table in the new room, checking lighting, radiators, windows and doors so that you will not need to move it again. Moving a levelled table, even a short distance, means relevelling.
Make sure the new floor is ready. Carpets should be fitted and paint should be dry before the table goes in, because working around an installed table is difficult.
On the day
Keep the route between the table and the door clear of furniture, boxes and rugs. Keep children and pets out of the way while slate is being carried. Make sure someone is available at both addresses to let the crew in and confirm where the table should go.
A good crew will lay floor protection, dismantle the table carefully, label every part and wrap the slate and rails before loading. Ask questions if you want to know what is happening; specialists are usually happy to explain.
At the new address
Confirm the exact position before the frame is built. Once the slates are set, the table is effectively fixed in place. The crew will rebuild the frame, set and shim the slates, fill the seams, refit or replace the cloth, refit the cushions and pockets and level the bed.
Before the crew leaves, look over the table. Check the cloth is tight and even, the cushion joints are neat and the pockets are secure. Roll a few balls slowly along the length and across the table to see that they run straight. Raise any concerns while the crew is still there.
After the move
Give new cloth a few games to settle. Brush the cloth in one direction and use a cover to keep dust and sunlight off it. Avoid sitting on the rails or leaning heavily on the cushions. If you notice the table developing a roll over the following weeks, it may be because the floor has settled under the weight; a quick relevel will sort it out.
Keep your mover's paperwork with any insurance details for your records.
Questions to ask a pool table mover
Before you book, it is worth asking a few questions. Do they specialise in pool and snooker tables, or is it an occasional job for a general removals firm? Will they dismantle the table fully, including the slates, and rebuild and level it at the new address? Is levelling included in the price? Can they recloth or replace cushions if needed? Do they carry goods-in-transit and public liability insurance, and can you see the documents?
Also ask how they will protect your floors and walls, how many people they will send, how long they expect the job to take and what could change the price on the day. A clear written quote that lists what is included is a good sign.
Moving a table you have just bought
If you are buying a second-hand table, check it before you commit. Ask the seller whether it is slate, look for cracks along the visible slate edges, check the cushions for bounce and the frame for damage. Agree a collection date that suits the seller and arrange access at their address. A specialist can collect the table, check it over and install it in your home in one trip.
Working through this list a couple of weeks before your move takes the stress out of the day. Most of the problems we see on moves, from a van with nowhere to park to a room that is still being painted, are easily avoided with a little planning.
Quick checklist
Measure the table, the new room and the route. Photograph the table and its condition. Decide on recloth, cushions or storage. Book specialist movers early. Arrange parking or permits at both ends. Tell the mover about stairs, lifts and long carries. Clear the table and pack cues. Make sure the new room is finished. Keep the route clear on the day. Check the table is level and playing true before the crew leaves.
Our local move prices start from £195 for a 6–7ft English pool table, £295 for an 8–9ft American pool table and £595 for a full-size 12ft snooker table, with recloth from £150. Distance, stairs and access affect the final price.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book a pool table move?
Book as early as you can, ideally a couple of weeks ahead, and earlier around popular moving dates.
Do I need to empty the room for a pool table move?
Not entirely, but the route between the table and the door should be clear, and there should be room around the table for the crew to work.
Should I be at home during the move?
Someone should be available at both addresses to give access and confirm where the table goes, and to check the table before the crew leaves.
See our pool table moving prices or find pool table movers near you.