1-603-803-6462Moving day can be stressful, but proper preparation and the right movers on your side will help make everything much easier. Choosing to use professional movers helps streamline your process, handling the heavy lifting, protecting your belongings, and ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
If you’re hiring movers, you may be wondering whether you should tip them, and if so, how much. This guide will help you not only prepare for moving day, but also determine how much to tip your movers, when tipping is appropriate, and some other ways to show your appreciation for great service.
Preparing for Moving Day
A successful move starts long before the movers arrive. Proper preparation can make the process more efficient and help your movers do their job effectively.
1. Declutter and Organize
Before packing, go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Reducing the number of items to move saves time and effort and will help you and your movers stay organized throughout the moving process. Having fewer items overall can also lower the total cost of your move!
2. Pack Efficiently
Use sturdy boxes, packing paper, and bubble wrap to protect your items. Start the packing process with nonessential items like wall decor or knick-knacks, and take things room by room. Label each box clearly with its contents and the coordinating room in your new home to streamline the unloading process.
3. Create a Clear Path
Make sure your hallways, staircases, and doorways are clear of obstacles. If parking is limited, arrange for parking by getting a parking permit or reserving a spot so the movers can load and unload efficiently.
4. Provide Special Instructions
Notify your movers ahead of time if you have fragile or valuable items that require special handling. This helps your movers prepare accordingly, bring appropriate equipment, prevent damage, and ensure careful transportation.
How to Make Moving Day Go Smoothly
On moving day, a little effort on your part can make the process easier for both you and the movers.
1. Be Available but Avoid Micromanaging
Stay present to answer questions or provide directions, but trust the movers to do their job. They are trained to handle heavy and delicate items efficiently.
2. Offer Refreshments
Moving is physically demanding work. Offering bottled water, electrolyte drinks or snacks can help keep the movers energized and comfortable.
3. Plan for Tipping
Check your moving company’s tipping policy in advance. Have cash on hand if you plan to tip, or ask whether gratuity can be included in your final bill.
4. Ensure a Safe Environment
Secure pets in a separate room, keep children out of the way, and make sure floors are dry and clear of obstructions to prevent accidents.
Should You Tip Your Movers?
While tipping is not required, it is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service or a great experience. Consider tipping your movers if they:
- Are punctual and work efficiently
- Communicate effectively, whether about arrival time or your move in general
- Practice attention to detail and handle your belongings with care
- Provide packing, unpacking, or disassembly/reassembly assistance
- Navigate stairs, tight spaces, or challenging weather conditions
- Ensure there’s no damage to items during the move
- Maintain a professional and friendly attitude throughout the move
- Go the extra mile to ensure a smooth experience
How Much Should You Tip Movers?
There’s no strict rule for tipping movers, but here are some general rules of thumb:
- Tip Based on Hours Worked: Many people tip based on how long the move takes. A common approach is $10-$20 per mover per hour, but take into account the complexity of your move or if it’s a multi-day long distance relocation.
- Tip as a Percentage of the Total: Another method is tipping 15% to 20% of the total moving cost. If you receive exceptional service or if your movers go above and beyond in navigating tough circumstances, consider tipping at the higher end of that range. For larger or long-distance moves, it’s also customary to tip at the higher end of that range, whereas tipping for smaller or local moves can be based on service quality in that range.
- Flat Rate per Crew Member: If you want to make things easier (or just don’t want to do the math!), consider tipping $50 to $75 per mover for simpler local moves and $75 to $100 per mover for long-distance moves.
If your movers exceed expectations, such as working in bad weather, handling tricky stairs, or finishing ahead of schedule, consider tipping on the higher end of the range to show your appreciation.
Best Ways to Give Tips
Once you’ve decided how much to tip, it’s recommended to distribute gratuity directly to each of your movers to ensure they each get an equal fair share.
Other Ways to Show Appreciation
If you want to go the extra mile to say thank you, you can always:
- Leave a Positive Online Review: A good review helps movers attract future clients.
- Provide Lunch or Snacks: A meal, snacks, or refreshments can be a thoughtful way to show appreciation.
- Refer Their Services: Recommending the company to friends and family supports their business.
Work with the Best Manchester Movers
Tipping your movers is a great way to acknowledge their hard work. Whether you tip based on time worked, the total cost, or a flat rate per mover, showing appreciation makes a difference. No matter how you express gratitude, preparing in advance and ensuring a smooth moving day will benefit both you and your moving crew.
Want the smoothest move possible? Choose Granite State Moving & Storage as your Manchester movers for a streamlined and positive moving experience from start to finish. Our teams pride themselves on not just amazing customer service, but efficient and safe moving services for any local or long-distance relocation. Give us a call at 603-803-6462 for more information about what we can do as your Manchester moving company or get a free quote today to get started.