Tipping a moving company is very much like tipping your waiter or waitress at a restaurant. Because they are part of the service industry, tipping is how you show your gratitude and is very much appreciated. If you were satisfied with the service you received, you may feel more inclined to tip 20 percent.
Typically, you should tip movers anywhere from 5% to 20% of the bill. However, like many things in life, there is an exception to the rule: long-distance moves.
When it comes to long-distance moves, you generally tip the movers according to the number of days it took to move. For example, a cross-country move that took roughly four or five days could constitute a $200 tip based on your level of satisfaction, the weather, and the level of work put in.
Keep in mind that long-distance moves usually require two crews: one to load the truck at your initial location and another crew at the new location. You'll want to tip both sets of movers.
How much should I tip movers?
When it comes to tipping, there really is no magic number, however, setting the minimum at $40 for an eight-hour move is a good rule of thumb. Remember to tip each crew member directly. Not only does it show that you recognize and appreciate their individual efforts, but if you hand the tip to the supervisor, he may distribute the tip as he sees fit or even keeps it all for himself.
| Moving Day |
Tip Per Person** |
| Half-Day Move (4 Hours) |
$20
|
| Full-Day Move (8 Hours) |
$40 |
|
12-Hour Move
|
$50 |
** These prices are just suggestions to use at your discretion. You can always tip more based on your level of satisfaction.
Are there instances when you shouldn't tip movers?
- They show up late or not at all
- They damage items or wreck your new home
- They are rude
- The contract actually includes gratuity in the price
- They aren't allowed to accept tips
What factors should you consider when tipping movers?
- The total cost of the move
- How long the move took
- The amount of work the crew did
- The number of over-sized pieces
- Whether the crew arrived on time or late
- How well the crew worked
- How satisfied you were with the move
All of these factors will contribute to how much you end up tipping the movers. Depending on the level of happiness in these categories, the amount you tip will increase or decrease. Since moving someone into a home is typically not a one-man job, you don't have to give each laborer the same tip - especially if one mover is doing much more work than his or her partner(s).
TIP: If you feel so inclined, tipping $10 dollars to each mover at the start of the move could encourage them to work harder.
Also, take into consideration how your items arrived at their destination. Is anything missing or damaged? If everything arrived on time and in one piece, you should consider supplying the movers with a higher tip.
What are other ways to tip movers?
While you can get away with paying your friends with pizza and drinks, it's probably not the best way to tip professionals. We suggest lunch and refreshments in addition to the tip. Offer to pick up sandwiches. That way they can pick what they want, and it is still affordable to you. Or, if you prefer, pick up the tab on their lunch. Either way, lunch (and/or dinner... depending on what time you're moving) is a great way to show your appreciation to the moving crew.
There are certain circumstances where it would be okay to offer food or drinks in place of a tip. For instance, if you are strapped for cash and the move is already costing you an arm and a leg, at least offer a drink (hot or cold, depending on the weather).
Keep in mind that moving is a lot of back-breaking manual labor that takes a lot of time, effort, and patience. It's nice to give a tip, food, and beverages or to show how much you appreciate their help doing the work that you yourself don't want to do.
On top of tipping and providing refreshments for the crew, a great way to show your appreciation is writing a positive review. Help them get more business by sharing your story with others looking to hire a moving company. Review your moving experience at Movers.com to help future customers make their choice.