How much do you tip movers?
How much do you tip movers?
$20 – $30 tip per person (local move)
$40 – $80 tip per person (long-distance move)
How much to tip movers
The average cost of tipping movers is $20 to $30 per person for local moves and $40 to $80 per person for long-distance moves. Some people tip 10% to 20% of the total move cost, split between crew members. Tipping a moving company or packers is customary but not required.
| Crew size | Total tip (local move) |
Total tip (long-distance move) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $20 – $30 | $40 – $80 |
| 2 | $40 – $60 | $80 – $160 |
| 3 | $60 – $90 | $120 – $240 |
| 4 | $80 – $120 | $160 – $320 |
| 5 | $100 – $150 | $200 – $400 |
If you’re really impressed by a mover’s service, make sure you leave a positive review for them online.
Factors to consider when tipping movers
The following factors typically influence how much you should tip movers:
Tip method: Instead of a flat rate, some people pay hourly or use the total moving cost as a guideline for how much to tip. The standard percentage for tipping movers is 10% to 20%. Others pay $5 to $10 per hour per person.
Complexity: If the move involves stairs, elevators, heavy furniture, or delicate items, your movers may charge more than the standard rate. If not, you may want to tip more to show appreciation for extra care and effort.
Home size: If you have a large home with lots of belongings, moving may take longer and require more work than average. In this case, you might want to tip your movers more.
Quality: If your movers went above and beyond in terms of efficiency, manners, and preserving your belongings, you may want to tip at the higher end of the range. If their work didn’t meet your expectations, you can tip at the lower end of the range or not tip at all.
Move distance: Long-distance moves require more hours of work, travel, and planning than short local moves. Most people compensate movers a little more for long-distance or cross-country moves.
FAQs about tipping movers
Do I have to tip movers?
You should tip your movers if you feel like they did a good job, but it’s not required. Tipping moving company employees is customary and appreciated, but there are some scenarios where you may tip less or not tip at all:
They came late or brought the wrong vehicle.
They took an unreasonably long time.
You did most of the work yourself.
They didn’t communicate well.
They damaged your home or belongings.
They made excessive noise or used profanity around kids or neighbors.
How should I tip movers?
You can tip movers after they’re done via cash, a check, card, or a payment app like Venmo. You can tip each mover individually or hand the tip for everyone to their boss or whoever you’ve communicated with the most and allow that person to distribute it to the rest of the crew.
Should I provide food or drinks for movers?
No, you don’t need to feed the movers, although it is a nice gesture. They will probably set aside a lunch break for themselves if the move takes more than a few hours, but you can also provide food, snacks, or water to show your thanks.
Getting estimates from movers
Before hiring movers near you, follow these important steps:
Compare several quotes from reputable moving companies.
Confirm that they have a business license and liability insurance.
Read reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Avoid extremely low estimates, which may indicate poor quality work.
Ask for a detailed, written quote before they start.
Ask if they charge a deposit or any other fees not included in the quote.
Questions to ask movers
Ask the following questions to find the best moving company possible:
How do you prefer to handle tipping?
Will a lump-sum tip go directly to the employees?
Do you charge any other fees not included in this quote?
About how long will this move take?
What is your policy for long-distance moves?
Do you accept last-minute appointments?
What moving insurance options do you offer?
How do you handle mishaps or damage during the move?
Do you offer any discounts?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.