For a short link, #14 would work just fine. The issue is voltage drop, not heating per se. The over-current will not blow #14 like a fuse.
I agree with getting it up off the floor. I think a cage would be easier than a shelf, given the weight of the motor. Make a stout little base, and maybe a little ventilated cover?
If it's too noisy when running, one can mount it on some rubber vibration mounts, but don't forget to provide a flexible grounding strap from motor frame to base and cover if they are metal. Everything metal must be grounded.