How to Use Dollies to Move Pool Tables Without Hassle

Moving a pool table is a challenging task that often requires multiple people to avoid injury and damage. However, with the right equipment like specialized dollies, you can move a pool table yourself without the hassle.

Dollies designed for moving pool tables allow a single person to tilt the table onto the dolly and wheel it to the new location with ease. Using dollies is the simplest way to transport heavy pool tables between rooms or into a moving truck without struggle or back pain.

Choosing the Right Dollies for Moving Pool Tables

Not all dollies are suited for moving bulky pool tables. You'll need sturdy dollies designed to handle the size and weight. Consider the following features when selecting dollies:

• Wheels capable of handling 200-600 lbs
• Wide platform for pool table base support
• Adjustable straps to secure table to dolly
• Locking wheel brakes for safety
• Durability to avoid buckling or collapse

Look for hard rubber or pneumatic wheels at least 5 inches in diameter on a dolly constructed with heavy-duty steel or aluminum. Custom pool table dollies provide the right specifications but household furniture dollies can also work in some situations.

Be sure to choose dollies that match the dimensions of your particular pool table. Measure the length and width of the base before purchasing dollies or renting them to ensure proper fit. Having dollies that fully support the base perimeter is vital for stability.

Types of Pool Table Dollies

There are a few main types of dollies tailored to moving different pool table varieties:

• Standard Pool Table Dollies - For moving traditional rectangular slate-top pool tables between 6-9 feet long. Padded and adjustable.
• Octagonal Dollies - Designed for octagon or oval-shaped pool tables needing centered support.
• 3-in-1 Multi-Function Dollies - Convertible dollies that transition between vertical, stair climber, and horizontal modes.
• Heavy Duty Upright Dollies - For moving ultra heavy antique or custom pool tables over 550 lbs.

Choose the specific dolly type recommended for your pool table size and shape. The seller can advise you on selecting the optimal dollies.

DIY vs Renting Pool Table Dollies

Purchasing your own set of pool table dollies is convenient if you plan to move frequently. However, renting dollies for a one-time move can be more cost-effective.

Renting allows you to use high-quality dollies tailored for the exact pool table you're moving without a large upfront investment. But you'll need to reserve them ahead of time and arrange pick-up/drop-off logistics.

Owning dollies means having them on-hand whenever needed to move your table. But you'll need storage space and be responsible for maintenance. Weigh your moving needs when deciding between buying or renting.

Using Dollies to Move a Pool Table Step-By-Step

Follow these key steps for moving a pool table with dollies:

1. Clear a path between rooms and remove doors if necessary.
2. Disassemble the pool table - take off legs, rails, etc.
3. Position 2-4 dollies around the table base perimeter.
4. Tilt table onto dollies with help, securing it with straps.
5. Lock wheels to keep dollies steady.
6. Carefully roll table in controlled motion to new spot.
7. Level and reassemble table.

Always put safety first by securing the pool table tightly to the dollies before moving it. Sudden shifting of weight can cause dollies to tip and lead to injury. Go slowly and take corners extra cautiously.

Tools and Supplies for Moving Pool Tables with Dollies

Having the right tools and accessories on hand will make moving pool tables with dollies smoother:

• Furniture sliders or plywood to slide table onto dollies
• Moving straps or ratchet straps to secure table to dollies
• Padding or blankets to protect table and walls
• Mini ramps for rolling dollies up steps/curbs
• Wheelbars for steering dollies around corners

It's also smart to have a dolly tool kit prepared with a wrench, screwdriver, lubricating spray, and extra straps. This allows you to quickly make minor dolly adjustments or repairs.

Disassembling and Reassembling the Pool Table

Take the pool table apart completely before loading it onto dollies to move. This prevents damage to the legs, rails, and bumpers.

Carefully detach the slate top pieces, rails, leather pockets, legs, and other hardware. Label parts to simplify reassembly. Stack slates vertically on a protected surface.

After moving the table base, reassemble by reversing the order you disassembled it. Level the frame, reattach slate pieces, pockets, rails and brush felt before placing balls and cues on the table.

Tips for Smooth Pool Table Transportation

These tips will help you safely and successfully move a pool table with dollies:

• Measure room access points to avoid getting stuck.
• Remove doors, tighten straps, and add padding to prevent surface damage.
• Plan route to limit stairs - bring ramps if needed.
• Get helpers for lifting, stabilizing, and steering dollies.
• Watch for door jambs clipping or bumping table edges.

Take precautions like covering the pool table with moving blankets secured by straps. Clean slate surfaces and check for cracks before loading onto dollies.

Navigating Stairs and Obstacles

Moving a pool table on dollies upstairs or downstairs presents added challenges. Remove banisters if possible and use temporary ramps or lifts designed for dollies.

Position helpers at all four corners to adjust straps as you go up or down. Take it slowly, one step at a time. Be prepared to quickly stabilize if dollies start to shift or wobble.

When moving the table around corners, through narrow hallways, or over thresholds, take wide turns and align dollies carefully. Have someone watch all sides to prevent bumping the edges.

Mistakes to Avoid When Using Dollies

Prevent problems during your pool table move by avoiding these common dollies mistakes:

• Choosing undersized dollies unable to handle the weight.
• Not locking wheels before sliding table onto dollies.
• Forgetting to strap down table tightly to dollies.
• Turning too sharply causing shifted weight.
• Going down stairs without enough support.
• Failing to measure room access before attempting move.
• Trying to rush through disassembly or reassembly.
• Not getting enough helpers to assist.

Trying to move a heavy pool table using flimsy or broken dollies often leads to accidents and damages. Take your time securing everything properly during each step of the move.

Moving pool tables poses physical strains like muscle pulls, herniated discs, and back injuries. Use proper lifting techniques and get help when needed.

Bend knees when tilting table onto dollies, not your back. Let your leg muscles do the work. Use straps to cinch table tight to dollies before lifting.