Moving a heavy solid wood table can be a challenging task. These tables are not only bulky and difficult to maneuver but also prone to scratches, dents, and structural damage if not handled properly. Whether you’re relocating to a new home, rearranging your furniture, or transporting a valuable piece, taking the right precautions will ensure your table remains in pristine condition. Here are five essential tips by San Francisco Movers to move your heavy solid wood table without causing any damage.
1. Prepare and Plan Ahead
Before you start moving your solid wood table, thorough preparation is crucial. The more you plan, the less risk you have of damaging the furniture or injuring yourself.
Measure Doorways and Pathways
One of the first steps is measuring the table’s dimensions and comparing them with doorways, hallways, and stairwells. This helps determine whether the table will fit through certain spaces without excessive maneuvering.
Clear the Path
Make sure the moving path is free from obstacles, rugs, loose items, or any hazards that might cause you to trip or lose balance while carrying the table.
Gather Necessary Supplies
To protect both the table and yourself, gather the following moving supplies:
- Moving blankets or furniture pads
- Bubble wrap or foam padding
- Furniture sliders
- Heavy-duty straps or ropes
- A furniture dolly (for extra support)
By having all the necessary tools ready, you will make the process smoother and reduce the chances of unexpected damage.
2. Disassemble If Possible
Many solid wood tables are designed with detachable legs or removable parts. Taking advantage of this feature can significantly reduce the weight and make transportation easier.
Steps to Disassemble a Solid Wood Table:
- Remove the Tabletop (If Applicable) – Some tables have a detachable top that can be separated from the base. Check underneath for screws or brackets that might be holding it in place.
- Detach the Legs – If the legs can be unscrewed, carefully remove them and wrap each piece in moving blankets to prevent scratches.
- Store Screws and Hardware – Place all screws and small parts in a labeled bag so they don’t get lost.
Why Disassembly Helps:
- Reduces the risk of breaking legs or joints
- Makes maneuvering through doorways and staircases easier
- Lowers the weight of individual parts, reducing strain when lifting
If your table is not designed to be disassembled, make sure to reinforce the legs with padding before moving.
3. Use Proper Lifting Techniques
Lifting heavy furniture incorrectly can lead to injuries such as back strains, sprains, or even serious spinal damage. Knowing the correct lifting technique will protect both you and the table.
Correct Lifting Posture:
- Bend Your Knees, Not Your Back – Squat down and lift with your legs, keeping your back straight to avoid strain.
- Keep the Table Close to Your Body – This helps distribute the weight evenly and prevents sudden shifts.
- Lift with a Partner – If the table is too heavy, get assistance to avoid unnecessary risk.
- Use Furniture Straps for Extra Support – Straps can provide additional grip and prevent the table from slipping out of your hands.
Avoid dragging the table, as this can cause scratches on both the furniture and the flooring.
4. Protect the Table During Transport
Once the table is lifted, ensuring it remains undamaged during transportation is essential. Without proper protection, solid wood tables can suffer from scratches, dents, or cracks.
Wrap the Table Properly
- Use moving blankets or furniture pads to cover all surfaces.
- Secure the blankets with packing tape or straps to prevent them from shifting.
- For extra protection, place bubble wrap on edges and corners.
Use a Dolly or Sliders
Instead of carrying the table throughout the move, consider using a furniture dolly or sliders:
- Dolly: A wheeled platform that helps transport the table with minimal effort.
- Sliders: Smooth pads placed under the legs allow the table to glide across floors without scratching.
Secure in the Moving Truck
If you’re transporting the table in a moving truck, make sure it is properly secured:
- Position the table flat against a wall or in a stable upright position.
- Use straps to prevent it from shifting during transit.
- Place padding around the table to absorb shocks from road vibrations.
5. Reassemble and Inspect After Moving
Once you’ve safely transported the table to its new location, follow proper steps to reassemble it and inspect for any damage.
Reattach Legs and Secure Fasteners
If you disassembled the table, carefully reattach all parts, ensuring that screws and bolts are properly tightened.
Check for Damage
Look for any scratches, dents, or loosened joints. If minor damage occurs, you can use furniture repair markers, wood polish, or wax to restore the table’s appearance.
Position Carefully
When placing the table in its final spot, use furniture pads underneath the legs to prevent floor scratches. Adjust the placement gently to avoid putting stress on the joints.
Final Thoughts
Moving a heavy solid wood table requires careful planning, proper lifting techniques, and adequate protection. By following these five essential tips—preparing in advance, disassembling when possible, using safe lifting methods, protecting during transport, and reassembling carefully—you can ensure that your valuable furniture remains intact and damage-free. Whether you’re moving across the house or across the country, these strategies will help you handle your solid wood table with care and confidence.
