Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Jul, 08 2025
When considering tipping movers, a general guideline is to tip 10 to 20 percent of the total move cost, distributed among each mover. Alternatively, a baseline of $20-$30 per mover for a basic move is a practical starting point, adjusted based on the move's complexity and service quality.
Tipping movers is a gesture of appreciation often practiced in the moving industry, reflecting customer satisfaction and acknowledgment of the movers' hard work. While not mandatory, a standard tip of 10 to 20 percent of the total move cost, or $20-$30 per mover for simpler moves, is commonly accepted. This practice varies depending on the move's intricacy, the effort exerted, and the quality of service rendered, ensuring a respectful and fair transaction between clients and movers.
Evaluating the Quality of Service Provided by Movers
Selecting a moving company requires careful consideration of service quality. This evaluation includes the movers' punctuality, care, professionalism, and efficiency. Did the movers arrive on time and finish the move on time? To avoid damage, you must determine if the movers handled items carefully.
Be sure to assess the movers' professionalism. How movers interact with clients, respond to questions, and present themselves can indicate this. Movers who are polite, well-dressed, and respectful will provide excellent service. Your evaluation also considers work efficiency. Job completion without delays or complications indicates superior service. These factors add up to a comprehensive moving service review.
Tip Amount Considerations
The tip amount for movers should reflect their hard work. Duration and complexity of the move are the first considerations. A larger tip would be appropriate if your move took several hours and involved complex tasks like moving heavy furniture up and down several flights of stairs or disassembling and reassembling furniture.
Another factor is the movers' professionalism and care. Did the movers respect your belongings, prevent damage, and work efficiently? If so, reward them with a higher gratuity for their excellent work. Finally, consider extra services like box packing and unpacking or packing materials, which go beyond standard moving services.
A Look at National Moving Tip Averages
Moving companies have no tipping standards like restaurants or salons. The gratuity amount depends on many factors. These include move complexity, home size, distance, and service quality. However, the average is 10%-15% of the official moving fee. This percentage is not mandatory or capped; it is just standard practice.
Different US regions show differences. Urban Northeast and West Coast residents tip more than 15%, according to data. Rural and Midwest residents pitch less. Still, 10-20% of the moving fee is typical. Tips for movers can be based on these regional differences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tipping is generally not mandatory in the moving industry but is a way to express gratitude for a job well done. It usually depends on factors like the complexity of the move, the quality of the service provided, and the distance covered.
You can determine the service provided by considering factors such as the time taken to complete the move, the care taken with your belongings, the professionalism of the crew, and whether they went above and beyond their duty.
The amount of tips for movers largely depends on the complexity of the move, the number of hours worked, and the quality of service provided. Other considerations may include the distance of the move, whether there were stairs or long carries involved, and the amount of heavy lifting.
While the tip amount can vary significantly based on the factors mentioned above, on average, most people tip their movers between $20-$50 per mover for a local move. For longer, more complicated moves, you should tripping more.
While cash is the most common and preferred form of tipping, it's generally good to offer other forms of gratuity. This can include providing meals or drinks during the move, gift cards, or even a positive review for their company. However, it's always best to check with the moving company beforehand.
