Moving to a new home can be an exciting, albeit stressful, experience. Whether you’re relocating locally or across the country, hiring professional movers can ease the burden, but it’s essential to consider how much to tip them for their hard work. According to professionals in the moving industry, tipping movers is not mandatory, but it’s a great way to show appreciation for exceptional service. Here’s what you need to know about tipping movers based on different circumstances.

Should You Tip Movers?

Tipping movers is not compulsory, but it’s a good practice when you’re satisfied with their service. A tip is a way to thank movers for going above and beyond, such as providing excellent communication, handling items carefully, or offering specialty services. Gabe Abshire, CEO of Move Concierge, emphasizes that these “white-glove” services can significantly reduce moving-related stress, making the process smoother for you.

While some moving companies include gratuity in the total payment, others leave the tipping up to you. If the service is top-notch, consider tipping 10% to 20% of your total moving cost. If the movers weren’t as professional or prepared, you have the discretion to adjust or eliminate the tip.

How Much You Should Tip Movers Based on the Type of Move

The amount you tip should align with the scope and type of move you’re making.

Long-Distance Moves

Long-distance moves generally involve a greater commitment, including multiple days of work. Movers often spend several nights away from home, making their job even more demanding. It’s common for long-distance moving companies to charge a flat rate rather than hourly fees, covering fuel and truck expenses. A tip of 10% to 20% of the total moving cost is ideal for these types of moves.

If you’d prefer to tip individually, it’s best to do so at the end of each day, especially if the team changes throughout the move.

Local Moves

For local moves, tipping is typically done based on hourly rates. On average, movers earn around $20 per hour. A reasonable tip would be about $4 per hour per mover. For a team of four movers working for five hours, the total tip would amount to around $100.

How Much to Tip Movers Based on the Size of the Move

Another factor that affects how much to tip is the size of your residence and the time required for the move. Larger homes typically involve more movers and a longer move time.

For smaller moves, like a studio or 1-bedroom apartment, tipping between $16 and $40 is appropriate if the move takes about two hours. For larger homes, such as a 3-bedroom house, tipping can range from $32 to $120 for a 2-hour move. The more hours your move takes, the higher your tip will be.

For example, for a 4-hour move, a studio might warrant a tip between $32 and $96, while a 3-bedroom home could merit a tip from $64 to $240.

Other Factors to Consider When Tipping Movers

While the amount you tip will largely depend on the type and size of your move, there are other factors to consider:

Location

The cost of living in your area can affect the overall cost of your move. If you’re in a high-cost area, it’s generally a good idea to tip more, especially if you’re basing your tip on hourly rates.

Quality of Service

Tipping reflects the quality of service you receive. If your movers were punctual, careful with your belongings, and exceeded expectations, don’t hesitate to show your gratitude with a generous tip.

Challenges During the Move

If your movers faced any unique challenges, like heavy furniture, narrow hallways, or multiple flights of stairs, consider tipping more. The same applies if they worked in difficult weather conditions, such as extreme heat or rain.

Weather Conditions

If the weather conditions make your move harder, be sure to tip accordingly. Movers who are working in a heatwave or a snowstorm deserve extra recognition for their effort and resilience.

If you’re planning a move in New York, Movers Not Shakers offers reliable and efficient moving services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re moving locally or across the city, our team ensures a smooth, stress-free experience. We specialize in providing top-notch moving solutions for residential and commercial clients, handling everything with care. Get in touch with us today for a hassle-free moving experience in New York—let us make your next move as easy as possible.