You found the perfect pinball machine for sale, and it’s finally yours. But now comes the big question:
How do you move a pinball machine into your house—safely, without damage, injury, or breaking the machine?
Whether it’s being delivered curbside, picked up locally, or moved from one room to another, moving a pinball machine is no small feat. These machines are heavy, bulky, and loaded with sensitive electronics.
At House of Pinball, we’ve moved hundreds of machines into basements, game rooms, and tight spaces. This guide will show you exactly how to get it done right—without stress or surprises.
📦 First, Know What You’re Dealing With
A standard pinball machine weighs 250–325 lbs and can measure:
- ~28–32 inches wide
- ~76 inches tall
- ~55 inches long (with legs removed)
That’s before crating or packaging.
So while it’s not impossible to move yourself, it requires preparation, the right tools, and sometimes an extra set of hands.
✅ Tools & Supplies You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following:
- Two-person furniture dolly
- Moving blankets or foam padding
- Ratchet straps or bungee cords
- Socket wrench or nut driver (usually 5/8″)
- Zip bags for hardware
- Work gloves
- Measuring tape
Optional but helpful:
- Appliance lift or stair dolly
- Furniture sliders (for tight indoor moves)
- White-glove movers (we offer this service!)
🚚 Step-by-Step: How to Move a Pinball Machine Into Your House
Step 1: Measure Doorways, Hallways & Stairs
Before the machine even leaves the truck or your garage, measure:
- Door width (needs to be at least 28–30″)
- Staircases (turning space is key)
- Basement or hallway clearance
💡 Pro Tip: Machines with detachable backboxes (like older Bally/Williams models) can be disassembled to save space.
Step 2: Remove the Legs & Backbox (If Needed)
For safe moving:
- Unplug the machine
- Remove the balls from inside
- Take off the lockdown bar & glass
- Remove the playfield balls to avoid damage
- Detach the legs using a socket wrench
- Fold or detach the backbox, if the model allows
Use zip bags to store bolts and label them for reassembly.
Step 3: Wrap & Protect the Machine
Wrap the body and backbox in moving blankets or thick padding. Then:
- Secure with stretch wrap or tape
- Use corner protectors if available
- Add extra padding near the coin door and control buttons
This prevents dents, scuffs, and component damage during transport.
Step 4: Use a Dolly or Cart to Move
Tilt the machine gently and slide it onto a 2-wheel dolly or appliance cart. Keep it:
- Upright
- Well-strapped
- Balanced
🎯 Don’t drag it, and avoid tipping it onto its front or back—this can damage the cabinet or internal boards.
Step 5: Move Carefully Through Tight Spaces
Move slowly, especially:
- Through narrow doors
- Around corners
- Down stairs (use a stair dolly if possible)
If it doesn’t fit:
- Remove the backbox
- Tilt vertically (if safe and needed)
- Remove doors from hinges for extra clearance
Step 6: Reassemble the Machine Indoors
Once inside:
- Reattach the legs (starting with front legs first)
- Open the backbox and reconnect any cables
- Replace the glass, lockdown bar, and pinballs
- Plug it in and power on
🎉 Congrats—you’re ready to play!
🧠 Can I Move It Myself or Should I Hire Help?
DIY is okay if:
- You’re physically able and have help
- You have a straight path from truck to game room
- You’ve moved appliances or furniture before
Hire pros if:
- You live in a multi-story home
- Space is tight or awkward
- You’re moving a rare, expensive, or EM-era machine
💡 House of Pinball offers white-glove delivery for stress-free setup. Ask us about in-home service in your area.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not measuring first – Many buyers discover too late that their doorway is too narrow.
❌ Trying to move it solo – Always have at least one helper.
❌ Dragging without padding – This can tear flooring or damage legs.
❌ Leaving parts loose inside – Always remove balls and lock moving parts.
❌ Powering on before full setup – Risk of damage to boards or components.
🛠 Buying From House of Pinball? We Make Moving Easy
When you buy a pinball machine for sale from House of Pinball, we help with:
✅ Pre-delivery guidance
✅ Disassembly instructions
✅ Optional crating
✅ Curbside or in-home delivery
✅ Lifetime support for setup & troubleshooting
You’re not just buying a machine—you’re getting a full ownership experience from real pinball experts.
🎯 Final Tips for a Smooth Move
- Plan ahead – Know the delivery path, door sizes, and machine dimensions
- Have the right tools – A dolly, padding, and helper are musts
- Take your time – Rushing leads to accidents or damage
- Ask for help if needed – Your back and your machine will thank you
🕹️ Looking for a Pinball Machine for Sale? We’ll Help You Move It!
If you’re shopping for a pinball machine for sale but worried about the logistics of moving it—we’ve got you covered.