How To Utilize Pool Table Dollies Effectively For Seamless Moving
Moving a pool table can be an extremely challenging endeavor. These luxurious gaming tables often weigh between 500 to 1,000 pounds depending on the material and size. Manually moving them across rooms or properties without damage is nearly impossible. This is where sturdy and well-designed pool table dollies come into play. They provide the heavy-duty support and smooth maneuverability to transport billiards tables safely. With the right techniques and dolly models, relocating your beloved pool table no longer needs to be a dreaded, high-risk activity.
In this all-encompassing guide, we will be exploring the ins and outs of utilizing pool table dollies for easy and seamless moving. From choosing the optimal dolly to expert loading, unloading and transportation tips, we have got you covered.
Choose the Right Pool Table Dolly
Not all dollies are created equal when it comes to the demands of moving heavyweight pool tables. You need one specially designed to handle the substantial weight and dimensions. Consider aspects like:
Table Weight and Dimensions
An appropriate pool table dolly must have a weight capacity that exceeds your table's weight. Most quality dollies handle 500 to 1,200+ pounds. Compare the width between the dolly wheels and your table to ensure a good fit.
Durable Materials
Select sturdy steel, hard plastic or heavy-duty rubber dollies to avoid cracks or dents. Materials like aluminium may buckle under sheer table weight. Durable finishes prevent corrosion as well.
Larger Wheeled Models
Wheels must glide easily across various floor types. Larger wheels add stability when balancing pool tables. Swivel casters allow effortless steering around corners.
Design and Customization
Key design choices include fixed frame, folding or adjustable dollies with optional accessories like drapes and handle extensions. Consider factors like storage space and table type before deciding.
Prepare for Moving Day
Proper planning prevents poor performance when moving pool tables. Run through these preparation tips beforehand:
Check Entryway Clearances
Ensure table dimensions fit through doors, hallways, elevators and entry points along the moving route. Arrange disassembly if required.
Protect Surfaces
Cover slate table tops and cloth playing surfaces with blankets and removable padding to prevent scratches or chips.
Clear the Route
Eliminate obstacles like low-hanging lights, narrow paths and stairs needing a change of direction. Assign helpers at tricky areas.
Recruit Assistance
Moving companies may offer pool table dollies with professional movers. For DIY shifting, gather able-bodied volunteers to steer dollies.
Use Your Pool Table Dolly
Exercise safety, care and control while using pool table dollies to prevent accidents and damage. Follow these expert tips:
Lock Wheels Before Loading
Engage wheel locks to immobilize dollies when sliding heavy tables on. This provides a sturdy base for balancing weight.
Distribute Weight Evenly
Center slate tablets and other components on dollies. Off-center loads risk toppling over or difficult steering.
Secure With Straps
Restrain pool tables tightly to the dolly frame using straps/ratchets. This prevents sliding or teetering when in motion.
Test Maneuverability
Unlock wheels and gently push loaded dollies before transporting. Ensure smooth mobility at table weight.
Transport Your Pool Table
Exercise due diligence when using dollies to transfer pool tables between locations. Heed these expert tips:
Move Slow and Steady
Rushed dollies risk accidents and damage. Maintain snail's pace for optimal control on ramps or slopes too.
Watch For Uneven Surfaces
Floor inconsistencies like cracks or thresholds can jolt dollies off balance. Keep heavy tables stable.
Have Spotters Assist
Station helpers at corners, doors and tricky sections to safely guide dollies through constrained spaces.
Take Rests as Needed
Frequent short breaks prevent back strain from prolonged pushing or pulling. Rotate helpers if required.
Unload and Reassemble
Exercise care when unloading pool tables and reassembling components. Follow these tips for accident-free completion:
Select Final Location
Confirm the room, clearance space and exit routes before detachment. This prevents midway location changes.
Lock Dolly Wheels
Immobilize wheels again before sliding heavy tables off dollies. This provides stabililty when lowering weight.
Remove Restraints
Detach all ratchet straps, braces and protective padding used to secure pool table components.
Reassemble Meticulously
Refit slate tops, legs, rails and other hardware cautiously to restore table integrity after transport.
Maintain Your Pool Table Dolly
With repetitive heavyweight use, pool table dollies endure plenty of wear and tear. Extend equipment longevity through careful maintenance:
Inspect for Damage
Check dollies before/after each use for dents, missing bolts or worn parts needing replacement.
Lubricate Components
Apply lubricants to preserve wheel, swivel and handle joint movements, preventing rust or seized parts.
Store Properly
Keep dollies clean and dry in upright positions to minimize trip hazards and component damage.
FAQs
What if my pool table is too heavy to tilt onto dollies?
Consider upgrading to higher weight capacity dollies or slide them under detachable side panels first instead.
Should I hire professional movers instead of DIY shifting?
Assistance is advisable for invaluable antique or unusually oversized tables. Otherwise, DIY dollies suffice.
How do I safely transport heavy slate components?
Use panel carts withsecured sliding drawers or wide straps to evenly balance slate tablet weight on dollies.
Pool table dollies are indispensable moving equipment for recreation centers, bars, clubs and homes. When appropriately sized and outfitted with features like heavy-duty locking wheels, adjustable handles and sturdy frames, they simplify the formidable task of relocating bulky billiards tables.
By exercising due diligence with safety preparations, controlled dolly maneuvering, securing restraints and taking suitable rest stops, pool tables can be shifted between locations without incident. Handle valuable slate tops, playing surfaces and other components with care to prevent irreparable damage. And don't forget post-move maintenance for your dollies - inspecting parts and lubricating joints extends useful equipment life!