Gratuity

"An optional cash tip paid to the moving crew (not the company) at the end of the move, in exchange for good service."

Why it matters

Tipping movers is not technically required, but it is customary in the United States and the crew expects it. A reasonable tip is $20 to $40 per crew member for a half-day local move, $40 to $80 per crew member for a full-day or long-distance move. The crew chief typically distributes the tip among the crew.

The quality of service you get on the back end of the move (careful unloading, willingness to disassemble furniture, attention to delicate items) is correlated with the crew's expectation of a tip. A pre-stated tip at the start of the day produces better results than a surprise tip at the end.

Best practices

Have cash on hand the day of the move; movers prefer cash over Venmo. Tip per crew member, not as a lump sum. Pay food and water during the day in addition to the cash tip. For interstate moves where the loading and unloading crews are different, tip both crews separately.

Frequently asked

Should I tip the truck driver too?

On a long-distance move, yes. The driver is often a separate person from the loading and unloading crews and usually drives 800 to 2,000 miles with your stuff. A $50 to $100 tip to the driver at delivery is standard.