Should you Tip your Movers?

Tip etiquette is a touchy subject under any circumstances. It’s even more fraught with questions when deciding whether to tip your movers.

Because movers are entrusted with your personal possessions and do much of the heavy lifting (pun intended), you may feel obligated to reward them for their hard work.

Although they are being paid to provide a service and to haul your belongings from place to place, they could be worthy of extra recognition for a job well done.

So, yes, please tip your movers if you are happy with your move.

Movers don’t expect a tip and a mover won’t stand in front of your house with an outstretched hand and a raised eyebrow.
However, as with any personal service provided—be it from a waitress or a haircutter—if you are pleased with the outcome, a little extra cash goes a long way in showing your appreciation.

Of course, if the moving service was sub-par, you are not obligated to provide a tip.

“Tipping is not expected and is up to the customer,” said John Bisney, a spokesman for the American Moving and Storage Association.

If you think your movers deserve a tip, what amount should give them? Again, there’s no set rule.

“Opinions on [tipping] are varied,” Bisney said. “One mover said the industry standard was 5%, which is pretty reasonable—if a crew of two movers move you for $500-$750, you might tip a total of $25 to $40, or $10 to $20 for each mover depending on the quality of the move,” Bisney said.

The quality of the move should also factor into your decision on how much to tip. Assess how carefully your items were moved into your new home and adjust your tip up or down depending on the level of service you received.

One other piece of advice: If you decide to tip, divide the cash equally and hand each mover the same amount individually.

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