Should I Tip Movers?

Is tipping necessary for hired moving labor?

Tipping for good service is standard in many industries, but it isn’t always clear when or if you should tip hired movers. While a gratuity isn’t required, it can be a way to show appreciation for a job well done.

Let’s look at common tipping practices for moving labor to help you decide what’s best for your move.

When to tip a moving crew

Before tipping movers, check the company's policy to make sure they allow it. If a gratuity is acceptable, the criteria below can help you determine when to offer one.

The workers provided excellent service

If the crew showed up on time, acted professionally and handled your belongings carefully, a tip can help show your appreciation. You can also gauge their friendliness, respectfulness and whether they worked efficiently.

Moving conditions were challenging

Tips are appreciated when moving conditions are more difficult than average, such as:

• Bad weather, like moving on a rainy day
• Long distances between the home’s door and the moving equipment
• Multiple heavy or awkward items
• Stairs

The crew went above and beyond

It’s nice to show appreciation to workers who took extra care with your things, stayed longer to complete the job or helped disassemble furniture when it wasn’t part of the contract.

How much money should I tip movers?

There is no set rule for how much cash to give a moving crew member. You can pay a flat rate to each worker or give a percentage of the total invoice to be split between everyone.

Flat rate for each worker

If you choose to tip, cash is best and should be given to each crew member. Here are suggested amounts, but they could vary based on where you live.

• $20-$40 each for 4 hours or less
• $40-$60 each for a full day
• $60-$100 each for complex moves, exceptional service, etc.

Percentage based on the cost of service

If the moving company is a small or family-owned business, they might prefer a tip based on a percentage of the invoice total. A gratuity of 10-20% of the total is common.

Other ways to show appreciation

Showing kindness to hired workers or friends and family helping with a move is essential. Try these ideas for the best possible outcome:

Be friendly, respectful and prepared

Make sure to prepare your home and belongings for the movers. On moving day, greet and thank the crew. Give clear instructions and stay available for questions. 

Offer refreshments

Have a cooler with cold water and sports drinks. Provide snacks like fruit, granola bars or chips, and offer lunch if the work will last all day. Pizza, sandwich platters and tacos are good ways to please a crowd.

Allow access to a bathroom

Keep one bathroom open and stocked with paper towels, soap, a trash can and toilet paper.

Leave a positive review

When the move is over, leave an online review about the stellar service you received and recommend the company to friends and family for their moves.

When to skip tipping the movers

Don’t tip the crew if the company prohibits it to avoid getting anyone into trouble. Also, gratuities aren’t standard practice for poor service.

Consider not tipping if the movers were late without explanation, rude, negligent or wasted time. Damaged items or problems with labor should be reported to the company’s owner or manager immediately.

Still planning your move?

If you’re still planning your out-of-state move, don’t miss out on your free U-Pack® quote. Call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant or request your quote online.

U-Pack is a DIY moving service with nearly 30 years of experience in long-distance moves. If you need to hire moving labor, we can help with referrals to trusted local crews.