How Much to Tip Movers | Complete Guide to Tipping Moving Companies
Wondering how much to tip movers during your next move? You’re not alone! Tipping your movers can feel like a gray area, but it’s a small gesture that goes a long way in recognizing the hard work and care your moving team puts into your relocation.
At Pack It Up Moving & Storage, we’ve helped thousands of clients across Georgia move safely and efficiently—and one of the most common questions we hear is, “Do you tip movers, and how much should you tip?” This guide covers everything you need to know about movers gratuity, so you can feel confident and prepared.
Should You Tip Movers?
Yes—tipping movers is standard and appreciated in the moving industry. While not mandatory, tipping:
- Rewards movers for hard work and care
- Encourages excellent service
- Acknowledges the physical demands of moving
You should especially consider tipping if:
- The crew was on time and professional
- They moved items carefully and quickly
- The move involved stairs, heavy furniture, or fragile items
- You had packing/unpacking services included
How Much to Tip Movers?
Here are general tipping guidelines based on the type of move:
Local or Short-Distance Moves (under 5 hours):
- Tip $20–$30 per mover
Full-Day Moves (6–8 hours):
- Tip $40–$60 per mover
Long-Distance Moves (8+ hours or multi-day):
- Tip $60–$100 per mover
Want your move handled start to finish? Explore our full-service local moving and long-distance moving options.
Hourly Tipping Breakdown
If you want to tip based on time:
- $4–$5 per hour per mover is considered fair for excellent service
For example:
- A 5-hour job with 2 movers → $40–$50 per mover
When and How to Tip Movers
- Tip at the end of the move, once everything is unloaded
- Hand cash directly to each mover or to the crew lead to divide
- If paying with a card, ask the office if gratuity can be added
While cash is preferred, drinks, snacks, or even lunch on a long day are thoughtful extras too!
Do You Tip Movers from a Professional Company?
Yes—even when working with a full-service company like Pack It Up Moving & Storage, tipping is a way to thank the crew directly for their personal effort. Our movers go the extra mile to ensure:
- Floors and doorways are protected
- Furniture is wrapped and transported safely
- The entire move runs efficiently and on time
Ready to experience 5-star service? Hire our expert movers in Atlanta today!
How Much to Tip for Long-Distance Moves?
Long-distance relocations often involve more stress, more people, and more time. For these moves:
- Tip $60–$100 per mover
- For multi-day moves, tipping daily or after final delivery is appropriate
Planning a cross-country relocation? Learn about our smooth, dependable long-distance moving services.
Do You Tip for Furniture or Junk Removal?
While this article focuses on full-service moves, if you’re hiring labor-only movers for:
- Furniture delivery
- Junk removal
- Heavy lifting/loading
It’s courteous to tip:
- $10–$20 per mover for smaller jobs
- $30–$50 per mover for jobs involving stairs, awkward items, or long distances
Check out our labor-only moving help if you only need help loading/unloading your own truck or container.
FAQs About Tipping Movers
Do I have to tip movers?
→ No, but it’s strongly encouraged if the crew performs well.
Is tipping movers standard practice?
→ Yes. It’s a widely accepted industry norm, especially in full-service or challenging moves.
Do I tip movers if I already paid a lot?
→ Yes, tipping is separate from the base rate and goes directly to the movers as a thank-you.
Should I provide lunch or snacks instead of a tip?
→ You can do both! Snacks and water are appreciated, but they’re not a substitute for monetary tips.
What’s an appropriate tip for a two-hour move?
→ Around $15–$25 per mover, depending on difficulty and service quality.
Why Trust Pack It Up Moving & Storage?
- ✔ Licensed & insured professional movers
- ✔ Background-checked crews
- ✔ Affordable, transparent pricing
- ✔ Full-service: local, long-distance, labor-only, and storage
- ✔ Hundreds of 5-star reviews and happy customers
We make every move personal. Whether you’re relocating across town or the country, our team is trained to treat your home and belongings with the respect they deserve.
Ready to get started? Contact us for a free moving quote or speak to our friendly staff today.