When you hire movers, the cost you’re quoted usually covers things like labor, fuel, transportation and materials. Whether you go with a top-rated moving company or a budget-friendly one, knowing how much to tip is always helpful. This is especially true if your moving expenses turn out higher than expected.
One thing that’s typically not part of your moving quote is a tip. If gratuity isn’t already included in the bill, you might wonder whether you need to tip at all and how much would be appropriate. Let’s clear up the confusion for you.
Key Points
- A simple guideline is to tip 10% to 20% of the total moving cost. Another option is to tip $20–$30 per mover for local moves and $50 per mover for long-distance moves.
- On average, movers earn about $19 per hour.
- You might want to tip more if the movers handle delicate or heavy items, assist with assembling or disassembling furniture, or work efficiently and finish quickly.
How Much Should You Tip Movers?
The amount you tip movers depends on the quality of their work and how long they spent on the job. If they worked hard and provided great service, they deserve a tip.
Since every move is unique, a common recommendation is to tip between 10% and 20% of the total moving cost. If you’d rather tip each mover directly, you can give $20–$30 per person for a local move or $50 per person for a long-distance move.
| Hours Worked | 2-Person Crew | 3-Person Crew | 4-Person Crew | 5-Person Crew |
| 2 Hours | $16 – $40 | $24 – $72 | $32 – $80 | $40 – $120 |
| 4 Hours | $32 – $96 | $48 – $144 | $64 – $192 | $80 – $240 |
| 8 Hours | $64 – $192 | $96 – $288 | $128 – $384 | $160 – $480 |
| 12 Hours | $96 – $194 | $141 – $432 | $188 – $576 | $240 – $720 |
This gives a straightforward idea of how much to tip based on the number of movers and the time they worked.
Should You Tip Movers?
Movers work harder when your move takes more time or involves packing a lot of boxes. Tipping is a great way to thank them for their effort. While it’s not mandatory, it’s a kind gesture to show your appreciation for their hard work. Keep in mind that most movers are paid hourly, so tipping might not directly impact their service, but it’s still a nice way to acknowledge their effort.
Things to Consider When Deciding How Much to Tip
Hiring movers can make your move much easier. Once the job is done, tipping is a nice way to show your appreciation. Here are some factors to help you decide how much to tip:
Complexity of the Move
If your move involves heavy or fragile items, stairs, elevators or other challenges, you may want to tip more. Although moving companies often charge extra for these tasks, tipping is a way to thank the movers for handling them with care and efficiency.
Quality of Service
Your tip should match how happy you are with their service. If the movers were fast, polite and made your move stress-free, you could tip more. If the service wasn’t up to par, you can tip less or choose not to tip at all.
Final Moving Cost
The total cost of your move can guide you in deciding how much to tip. A common rule is to tip 10% to 20% of the total cost. Check your receipt to see the final amount and consider the effort each mover put in. If someone went above and beyond, you can always tip them extra.
Distance of the Move
The distance of your move can also influence your tip. For long-distance moves, it’s thoughtful to tip a little more per mover to acknowledge the extra time and effort they invested.
Condition of Items after the Move
If your belongings arrive at your new home in good condition, it shows the movers handled them with care. This level of attention can help you decide how much to tip as a way to show your appreciation.
Are You Required to Tip Movers?
In short, no, you’re not required to tip movers. As experts often say, “Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s always appreciated.” While it’s not something you have to do, it’s worth considering as a kind gesture.
Movers typically earn around $19 per hour which isn’t a lot considering the demanding nature of their job. Moving requires strength, stamina and skill to handle heavy lifting, delicate items, and careful planning, making a tip a meaningful way to acknowledge their hard work.
When to Tip & When Not To
Tipping isn’t required especially if the movers didn’t do a good job or weren’t very professional. Tipping is a way to show appreciation for excellent service. Here’s when you might tip more or less:
When to Tip More
- They handle heavy or fragile items with care
- They are friendly & polite
- They work quickly & efficiently
- They go above & beyond like helping with furniture setup or assembly.
When to Tip Less
- They show up late or bring a truck that’s too small
- They seem to work slowly or are not efficient
- You end up doing most of the work yourself
- They damage or mishandle your belongings
How to Tip Movers
If you decide to tip your movers, there are a couple of ways to do it. You can give the tip to each mover personally or hand it to the lead mover (usually the person you’ve been coordinating with the most).
Some experts suggest tipping each mover individually at the end of each day to make sure everyone gets their fair share. This is especially helpful for multi-day moves where the crew might change. Tipping only at the end could mean someone who worked hard earlier might miss out if they aren’t part of the final crew.
No matter which method you choose, it’s a good idea to have cash ready for tips. If gratuity isn’t included in your bill, you won’t be able to split tips using a credit card.
What If You Can’t Afford to Tip?
If you’re on a tight budget and can’t tip, there are other ways to thank your movers for their hard work. You can offer them water, sports drinks or snacks like granola bars to keep them energized. Another thoughtful way to show your appreciation is by leaving a positive review online or recommending their services to your friends and family.
Should You Provide Food to Movers?
Moving can take several hours & chances are, you’ll need to eat at some point—so it’s thoughtful to consider your movers too. While many movers bring their own food and drinks, offering them a meal can help things go smoothly.
Movers often appreciate when customers provide snacks or refreshments. Simple options like pizza or sandwiches are affordable and generally enjoyed by everyone. Alternatively, you can recommend nearby restaurants or even give them a little cash to grab their own meal.
FAQs
Do you tip piano movers?
Yes, tipping piano movers is common because they handle a heavy and delicate item. A good tip is usually between $20 and $40 per person, depending on how challenging the move is.
Do you tip military movers?
Military movers, hired through government contracts, don’t expect tips. However, if they do a great job, you can offer them snacks, drinks or a small tip as a way to show your gratitude.
Do you tip furniture movers?
Yes, tipping furniture movers is a nice way to thank them for their effort. Typically, $20 to $30 per person works for local moves, while up to $50 per person is appropriate for long-distance moves.
How much do you tip movers in Dallas?
In Dallas, where moving can be more demanding, it’s common to tip 15% to 20% of the total moving cost. Alternatively, you can tip $30 to $50 per mover based on how challenging the move is.
Do you tip commercial movers?
Tipping commercial movers isn’t as common but it’s a nice gesture if they provide excellent service. A tip of $20 to $40 per mover is reasonable, depending on the size and difficulty of the job.
Do you tip junk movers?
Tipping junk movers isn’t mandatory but is appreciated. If they do an exceptional job removing your items quickly and efficiently consider tipping $10 to $20 per worker.
