When you hire movers, the price you’re quoted usually includes the cost of labor, fuel, transportation and materials. Whether you’re working with a high-end moving company or a more affordable option, it’s always helpful to know how much to tip. This is especially important if your moving costs end up being higher than you planned.
One thing that’s usually not included in your moving quote is a tip. If gratuity isn’t part of the bill, you might be unsure if you need to tip at all or how much would be appropriate. Let me break it down for you and make it simple.
Key Points
- A common rule is to tip 10% to 20% of your total moving cost. Alternatively, you can tip $20–$30 per mover for local moves & around $50 per mover for long-distance moves.
- Movers typically earn about $19 an hour on average.
- Consider tipping more if the movers handle fragile or heavy items, help with assembling or disassembling furniture, or work quickly and efficiently.
How Much Should You Tip Movers?
The amount you tip movers usually depends on how well they did their job and how much effort they put in. If they worked hard and gave excellent service, a tip is a nice way to show your appreciation.
Since every move is different, a good rule of thumb is to tip between 10% & 20% of the total cost. If you prefer to tip each mover directly, you can give around $20–$30 per person for a local move or about $50 per person for a long-distance move.
Tipping Guide for Movers
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 chart provides a clear idea of how much to tip, based on how long the movers worked and the size of the crew.
Should You Tip Movers?
Movers often put in extra effort when your move takes longer or involves packing many boxes. Tipping is a thoughtful way to thank them for their hard work. While tipping isn’t required, it’s a kind gesture to show your appreciation. Remember, most movers are paid hourly so tipping doesn’t necessarily affect their pay but it’s a great way to acknowledge the effort they’ve put into helping you.
Things to Consider When Deciding How Much to Tip
Hiring movers can make your move much smoother and tipping is a nice way to thank them once the job is done. Here are some factors to help you decide the tip amount:
Complexity of the Move
If your move involves heavy or fragile items, stairs, elevators or other challenges, you might want to tip a bit more. While moving companies may already charge extra for these tasks, tipping is a way to personally thank the movers for handling everything carefully and efficiently.
Quality of Service
The tip should reflect how satisfied you are with their work. If the movers were quick, polite and made the process stress-free, consider tipping generously. However, if the service was not great, it’s okay to tip less or not tip at all.
Final Moving Cost
The total cost of your move can help you decide how much to tip. A general rule is to tip 10% to 20% of the total cost. Check your receipt for the final amount and think about the effort the movers put into the job. If someone went above and beyond, you can always give them a little extra.
Distance of the Move
The distance of your move is another factor to consider. For long-distance moves, it’s a nice gesture to tip each mover a bit more to acknowledge the extra time & effort they spent on your move.
Condition of Items after the Move
If your belongings arrive at your new place in great condition, it means the movers took good care of them. This attention to detail can help you decide how much to tip as a way to thank them for their care and professionalism.
Are You Required to Tip Movers?
No, you’re not required to tip movers. As the saying goes, "Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s always appreciated." While it’s not something you must do, it’s a thoughtful way to show your gratitude.
Movers typically earn about $19 per hour which isn’t much considering the physical and demanding nature of their work. Their job requires strength, stamina and skill to handle heavy lifting, delicate items, and careful planning. A tip is a kind way to recognize their hard work and effort.
When to Tip & When Not To
Tipping isn’t mandatory especially if the movers don’t provide good service or act unprofessionally. Tipping is meant to show appreciation for great work. Here’s when you might tip more or less:
When to Tip More
- They handle heavy or fragile items carefully
- They are friendly & polite throughout the move
- They work quickly & efficiently without wasting time
- They go the extra mile, like helping with furniture assembly or setup
When to Tip Less
- They arrive late or bring a truck that’s too small for your move.
- They work slowly or seem inefficient.
- 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 either hand the tip directly to each mover or give it to the lead mover, who’s usually the one coordinating with you the most.
Some suggest tipping each mover at the end of each day especially for multi-day moves. This ensures everyone who worked hard gets their fair share, even if they’re not part of the crew on the final day.
Whichever method you choose, it’s best to have cash on hand for tips. If gratuity isn’t included in your bill, you may not be able to split tips using a credit card.
What If You Can’t Afford to Tip?
If your budget doesn’t allow you to tip, there are other ways to thank your movers for their effort. You can offer them water, sports drinks or snacks like granola bars to keep them refreshed and energized. Another great way to show your appreciation is by leaving a positive review online or recommending their services to friends and family. These gestures go a long way in showing gratitude.
Should You Provide Food to Movers?
Moving can take a long time and you’ll probably need to eat during the process—so it’s considerate to think about your movers too. While many movers bring their own food and drinks, offering them a meal can make things more pleasant.
Movers usually appreciate snacks or drinks provided by customers. Simple options like pizza or sandwiches are affordable and popular with everyone. Alternatively, you can suggest nearby restaurants or give them some cash to buy their own meal. These small gestures can go a long way in keeping the day smooth and friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you tip piano movers?
Yes, it’s common to tip piano movers since they handle a heavy and delicate item. A fair tip is usually between $20 and $40 per person, depending on how difficult the move is.
Do you tip military movers?
Military movers, hired through government contracts, don’t usually expect tips. However, if they provide excellent service, you can thank them with snacks, drinks or a small tip to show your appreciation.
Do you tip furniture movers?
Yes, tipping furniture movers is a great way to show your gratitude for their hard work. For local moves, $20 to $30 per person is a good amount and for long-distance moves, up to $50 per person is appropriate.
How much do you tip movers in Chicago?
In Chicago, where moving can be more challenging, it’s typical to tip 15% to 20% of the total moving cost. Another option is to tip $30 to $50 per mover, depending on how tough the job is.
Do you tip commercial movers?
Tipping commercial movers isn’t very common but it’s a nice way to thank them for excellent service. A tip of $20 to $40 per mover is reasonable, based on the size and difficulty of the move.
Do you tip junk movers?
Tipping junk movers isn’t required but is appreciated. If they do a great job clearing your items quickly and efficiently, you can tip $10 to $20 per worker as a thank-you.