Should I Tip Movers?

A guide for tipping movers: What to know

Tipping a hired moving crew isn’t required, but it can go a long way in showing your appreciation for a job well done. After all, the workers are handling all the heavy lifting to get your things into or out of the moving equipment, so you don’t have to break a sweat!

Let’s review when tipping makes sense, standard gratuity rates and other ways to show gratitude for the crew, whether you decide to tip or not.

What should I consider before tipping moving company workers?

Before tipping the crew, confirm the company's policy to ensure gratuities are acceptable, as not all moving services allow them. 

Typically, full-service movers and labor-only moving crews can accept tips, but DIY service providers cannot. For example, U-Pack® delivery drivers are not allowed to take tips.

If gratuities are acceptable for your mover, the criteria below can help you determine when to offer them.

Above and beyond

Did the workers take extra care with your things, stay longer to complete the job or help disassemble furniture when it wasn’t part of the contract? Were they super friendly? Take note of anything you feel is above and beyond good service.

Challenging conditions

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 and challenging paths to get furniture outside the home

Excellent service

If the crew meets your expectations by showing up on time, acting professionally and handling your belongings carefully, a tip can help show your appreciation. You can also gauge their friendliness and respectfulness, as well as whether they worked efficiently.

How much should you tip a moving crew and when?

When tipping is allowed, some people prefer to pay a flat rate to each worker, while others would rather pay a percentage of the total invoice, split among everyone. The best time to tip is after the job is complete and you’ve confirmed satisfaction with the service (checked that things were loaded properly, workers were respectful, etc.).

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 total cost of services

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.

Besides a gratuity, how else can I show appreciation to the crew?

Being kind and gracious to hired moving labor or friends and family helping with a move is essential. For the best possible outcome, do the following:

Allow access to a restroom

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

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. 

Provide lunch and/or refreshments

Keep a cooler stocked with cold water and sports drinks available. Provide snacks like fruit, granola bars or chips, and offer lunch if the work will last all day. Pizza, sandwich platters and tacos are typically good options.

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

Is it okay not to tip movers?

The decision to tip or not is always yours. And keep in mind that gratuities aren’t standard practice for poor service. A tip shouldn’t be offered if the workers were late without explanation, rude, negligent or wasted time. 

Note: Damaged items or labor issues 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.