Tips Not Always Expected by Movers
It’s standard to tip a waitress, a valet and even a hair stylist, but what about a mover?
If you’re involved in a local or long distance move for the first time, this is likely a big question on your list. The truth is moving tips are appreciated by the men and women who do the heavy lifting and toting, but they are not expected.
Moving is a service-based industry, just like waiting tables or parking cars, but it’s not a tip-based service. This means movers tend to get paid by the hour, or on a salary, and are not depending on tips to make their living. That said, there are times when tipping your movers is appropriate.
If you’re new at the moving game and don’t know how to show your appreciation to the people who are hauling your belongings, consider these things before you decide to tip:
- How well have the movers performed? Have they gone above and beyond your expectations? If so, you might want to offer them a little extra.
- Have the movers been especially careful and respect of your belongings? Would you hire them again? If you answer yes to these things, you might want to consider a tip of some form.
Remember moving tips don’t always have to come in the form of cash. Movers who are doing a good job generally are delighted to receive something as small as a few cold drinks and a sandwich for their troubles while they are taking a much deserved break. If you can’t afford to give everyone on the crew a decent moving tip, lunch and refreshments are always in order. Do ask them what they’d prefer to eat and drink, however. Movers tend to get a whole lot of pizza!
If you’re exceptionally pleased with the job the movers have done and you do want to tip them for their troubles in cash, it’s best to follow industry standards. Rather than trying to figure out a percentage based on the total moving costs, consider a flat tip. The percentage can be quite costly. On average, most movers will receive a tip of about $20 for a full day’s work and about $10 for a half day.
When you’re dealing with services for the first time, it is hard to tell when it is appropriate to tip and when it is not. When it comes to moving tips, however, these are completely optional. If a job’s been well done and you’d like to offer a little extra thanks, it is completely acceptable to offer a moving tip.
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