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5 Things You Should Know About Tipping Your Moving Service

Moving can be a stressful and time-consuming endeavor. Whether moving across town or the country, packing and moving services can make your life much easier. However, many people are unsure about the proper etiquette for tipping their moving service.  Here are five things you should know about tipping your moving service to make sure you are showing your appreciation for their hard work.

  1. Tipping Is Not Mandatory, but It Is Appreciated

While tipping is not a requirement in the moving industry, it is a way to show appreciation for the moving crew's hard work and extra care. Moving is physically demanding, and the team often handles your valuable and sentimental items. If the movers do a great job, it is a nice gesture to tip them for their efforts. That said, if you are not satisfied with the service provided or the movers were unprofessional, you are not obligated to tip. Tipping is a reward for good service, so if you feel the movers did not meet your expectations, you can choose not to tip.

  1. How Much to Tip

The amount you tip depends on several factors, such as the size of your move, the complexity of the job, and the level of service provided. There is no mandatory or standard amount or percentage that you should tip, which is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it means that if you choose to tip, you are free from any expectations or rules, but on the other hand, sometimes knowing what is typical can help guide your decision. As a starting point, here are some common tip ranges; $10.00-$50.00 for a small move, $20.00-$100.00 for a large move, per mover. If the move is particularly challenging or if the movers went above and beyond, you could choose to increase your tip. Keep in mind that tipping should be based on the quality of the service provided. You could adjust your tip accordingly if the movers were late, careless with your belongings, or unprofessional. Ultimately, recognize a tip for what it is; a gift to show appreciation for someone who went out of their way to make your day better or easier.

  1. When to Tip

It is best to tip your movers at the end of the move. This allows you to assess the overall quality of the service and determine an appropriate amount to tip. If you are moving long-distance and using packing and moving services for loading and unloading your belongings, you should tip at both ends. If you use a moving service that charges by the hour, account for any breaks the movers may take during the day. You should not feel obligated to tip for time spent on breaks, as this time is not part of the service you are paying for.

  1. How to Tip

When tipping your moving crew, giving each mover their tip individually in cash is best. This ensures that each person receives their fair share and allows you to show your appreciation directly. If you'd rather not carry cash, you can also tip using a mobile payment service like Venmo, be aware that this may not be as personal a gesture. Depending on the moving service you choose, you may or may not be able to add a tip to a check or credit card payment.  When giving a tip, thank each mover for their hard work and let them know you appreciate their efforts. This small gesture is an excellent way to show your gratitude.

  1. Other Ways to Show Appreciation

In addition to tipping, you can show appreciation for your moving crew in other ways. Cold drinks and snacks throughout the day can help keep the movers energized and hydrated. Providing lunch or ordering pizza is another way to show gratitude, especially for longer moves. You can also leave a positive review for the moving company online, mentioning the names of the movers who helped you. This feedback can help the company recognize and reward its top performers and help future customers decide which moving company to choose. At the end of the day, even a handshake will be a welcome gesture and an effective way to show appreciation. After all, you’ve already provided a job for your movers to perform today. 

Conclusion

Tipping your moving service is and always should be personal decision based on the quality of service provided. Remember these guidelines when deciding how much to tip, and remember that showing your appreciation for the hard work of your moving crew can make their day a little brighter. Looking for reliable packing and moving services in the Austin area? Contact Blue Whale Moving Company today and let us take the stress out of your move! Our experienced team will make sure your belongings are packed safely and efficiently. Don't wait, contact us today to get started.