How Much to Tip Movers
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Moving Buyers Guide
Summing it up
- Typical Tipping Amounts:
- $5 - $10/hour per mover or $50 - $100 per mover for a full-day move.
- For difficult moves (e.g., stairs, heavy items), tip up to 20% of the total cost.
- Flat Rate Tips:
- Local moves: $20 - $30 per mover.
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Long-distance moves: $40 - $50 per mover.
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Additional Factors to Consider:
- Weather conditions, extra care for fragile items, and job difficulty can influence tipping.
Guidelines for Tipping Movers
- When to Tip:
- Typically at the end of the move. For long-distance moves with separate crews, tip each group proportionally.
- How to Tip:
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Options include cash, check, or credit card. Credit or checks can help with documenting expenses for taxes.
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Alternative Gestures:
- Providing refreshments, snacks, or lunch is appreciated, especially for all-day moves.
- Stick to nonalcoholic drinks during the job; offering beer as a takeaway gesture is acceptable.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
- Were the movers courteous and organized
- Did they handle heavy or fragile items with care
- Was the job particularly challenging (e.g., multiple stops, stairs)
When Not to Tip
- If movers are disrespectful, damage items, or perform poorly, tipping is not mandatory.
Summary:
Tipping movers is not required but is a kind gesture for a job well done. The amount depends on factors like the job's difficulty and quality of service. Standard tips range from $20 for short jobs to $100 for full-day efforts, with 20% of the total move cost being a fair tip for exceptionally difficult jobs. Don't forget: food, drinks, and good reviews also go a long way!
