Transporting a dining table, whether across town or just to another room, requires care and planning to prevent damage. Follow these tips for safely moving your dining table in one piece.
Disassemble when Possible
For tables that come apart, disassembling before transport can make the pieces more manageable. This is especially helpful for maneuvering tight corners or stairs.
Remove Leaves
If your table has detachable leaves, remove them before moving the table. Take care to label each leaf’s position so you can easily reassemble later.
Unscrew Tabletop
Some tables allow you to unscrew the top from the base. This significantly lightens the piece you have to carry. Carefully keep all hardware together in a bag.
Separate Pedestal Base
For a pedestal style base, the solid pedestal column often detaches from the top and feet. This makes moving each section simpler.
Detach Legs
Tables with 4 legs typically have the legs screw off. Taking them off reduces width for moving through narrow doorways.
Label All Parts
As you disassemble components, use painter’s tape to label each section with a number or letter. This ensures correct reassembly later.
Bag Small Parts
Place any hardware, including screws, bolts, and washers, in a sealed bag or container so no small parts get misplaced in transit.
Protect the Tabletop
However you move the table, taking steps to protect the tabletop from bumps and scrapes is key.
Wrap in Moving Blankets
For ultimate protection, wrap the tabletop securely in moving blankets or quilts to cushion all sides during handling and transport. Tie blankets in place with rope or tape.
Use Cardboard Edge Protectors
You can make bumpers for table edges by cutting triangles out of large cardboard boxes. Duct tape them around the perimeter before moving.
Bubble Wrap the Surface
For tables with vulnerable finishes, layer bubble wrap over the entire tabletop and tape down before transport to prevent scratches and dings.
Transport Proper Assembly
When possible, move the table fully assembled for less handling of multiple parts.
Keep Base Attached
If the tabletop doesn’t detach, transport as one whole piece without removing the base or legs. This prevents loss of assembly hardware or mistaken reattachment.
Carry Vertically
When moving the table fully assembled, transport vertically. This prevents the top or legs from bumping walls, doorways, or stairs. Lift from both ends.
Tip Sideways Only When Required
In very tight spaces like certain staircases, you may need to tip the table on its side to fit around corners. Always keep it fully supported.
Enlist Assistance
Depending on the size and weight of your table, moving help can make transport much simpler.
Get Help Lifting
Recruit a family member, friend, or professional mover to help lift and maneuver the table pieces. Proper lifting prevents injury and drops.
Hire Specialty Movers
For exceptionally large, bulky, or fragile dining tables, call specialty furniture movers. They have dollies and experience to move heavy tables safely.
Use Moving Straps
Moving straps that allow you to grip and lift awkward furniture securely can help you maneuver an assembled table solo if needed.
Use Proper Equipment
The right moving equipment can streamline dining table transport with minimal heavy lifting.
Furniture Dollies
A sturdy dolly designed for moving furniture takes the strain off carrying weight. Carefully slide or roll the table onto the dolly instead of lifting it.
Appliance Hand Truck
For small to mid-size tables, an appliance hand truck helps one person pivot and steer the table in wheels versus carrying it.
Furniture Glides
Using temporary furniture sliders or glides lets you slide a table across floors instead of lifting it. Protect floors from scratches.
Prepare Vehicle or Route
Getting your vehicle or path ready before moving a table simplifies the process.
Measure Clearances
Check all doorways, stair dimensions, and vehicle cargo space ahead of time. This ensures no surprises that prevent fitting the table through during transit.
Protect Surfaces
Cover truck beds, cargo areas, or any surfaces the table will rest on with moving blankets to prevent damage during drives. Secure blankets in place.
Clear the Path
Any time you’ll be maneuvering through tight spaces, clear the way of clutter, pets, and people so you can focus on moving the table safely. Remove doors if very narrow.
Secure the Table
Don’t allow shifting during transport which can damage the table. Secure it properly.
Immobilize in Truck
Use straps, rope, or bungee cords to tie a table firmly in a truck bed or cargo area with no room for sliding. Pad under straps to avoid dings.
Prevent Tip Over
When setting a table down in a vehicle, brace it against walls or other cargo so it can’t tip over during transit. Top-heavy pedestal tables need extra stability.
Cushion the Ride
Fill open spaces around a table in a cargo area with pads, blankets, or foam blocks so bumps and vibrations don’t shift it during the drive.
Lifting Techniques
Proper lifting methods will keep both your back and the table protected.
Lift with Legs Use your leg muscles by squatting down instead of bending over from the waist. Keep your back straight and avoid twisting.
Carry Evenly Balanced When carrying with 2 people, lift from opposite ends at the same time while coordinating steps. Walk slowly and communicate.
Pace Yourself Take breaks every 15-20 minutes if moving long distances to prevent fatigue. Set the table down gently rather than just dropping.
Get a Grip Hold table edges securely in position before lifting. Wear gloves to prevent slippage and provide a better grip.
Pivot Don’t Twist When negotiating corners or stairs, carefully pivot your whole body instead of twisting at the waist. Have a helper act as a spotter.
With some strategic disassembly, protective prep, manpower, and safe lifting, getting your dining table to its new destination in one piece can be smooth sailing. Always assess the table’s characteristics and route conditions before diving into moving it. Having a plan helps ensure your treasured table arrives without a scratch.
