The amount you tip long-distance movers depends on several factors, including the quality of service you receive and the distance of your move. Generally speaking, it is customary to tip 10% of the total cost of your move, or $200-$500 for interstate moves.
When Should You Tip Your Movers?
Long-distance moving companies typically provide their customers with two moving crews:
Movers and packers: The moving crew is responsible for packing, disassembling, and loading your household goods onto a moving truck on the move-out date scheduled.
Drivers and helpers: The CDL driver and helper(s) drive the semi-truck to your new home and unload, remove all moving blankets, and reassemble beds and tables.
Ideally, it is acceptable to tip the movers and packers at your old house and the drivers and helpers at your new home.
How Much Should You Tip Each Long-Distance Mover?
The amount you tip each mover should be based on their level of service. If the movers did an exceptional job and went above and beyond to accommodate your needs, giving them a larger tip is appropriate. A good rule of thumb is $50-$100 per mover.
Is $100 a Good Tip for a Long-Distance Mover?
A $100 tip is a good starting point for a long-distance mover. If the total cost of your move was $2,000, then giving the movers a 10% tip would amount to $200. You can give each mover $100 and still stay within the 10% tipping range.
How Can You Tip Your Movers?
The easiest way to tip your movers is in cash. At the end of a long day of moving, most people do not have the energy to write a check. If you decide to tip with cash, be sure to distribute it evenly among the crew members.
It is also acceptable to include a gratuity in your final bill. This can be done by adding it to the balance payment. Be sure to specify that the gratuity is for the movers.
What Happens if You Do Not Tip Your Movers?
Long-distance movers are not expecting a tip, but it is an excellent way to show your appreciation for a well-done job. It is not required to tip your long-distance movers, but it is customary.
If you do not tip your movers, they will still provide quality service. However, if you are unsatisfied or unhappy with the level of service you receive, withholding a gratuity is an easy way to send a message that their services were not up to par.
What If I Can’t Afford to Tip My Movers?
It is entirely understandable if you cannot afford to tip your movers. You can always offer them a drink or lunch as a gesture of appreciation. You can always express your gratitude for their help in completing your long-distance move.
Do You Tip the Owner of the Long-Distance Moving Company?
Think about it this way, if you own a small business and someone comes in and does an exceptional job, would you accept a tip? Most business owners would politely decline, but they would certainly appreciate the sentiment. The same goes for the owner of a long-distance moving company. They are not expecting a gratuity, but it is a kind gesture.
In Conclusion
Tipping long-distance movers are customary, just like servers in restaurants, hair stylists, and pizza delivery drivers. The amount you tip depends on the moving service you get and what you can afford.
Our professional movers will never expect a tip or judge you if you cannot afford one. We just want to make your cross-country move as stress-free as possible. Call Eden’s Moving Services today and get a free quote for your upcoming long-distance move!
