How much do you tip movers for a long distance move is a question that you will hear a lot from people who are planning to move. Coordinating schedules, packing belongings, and managing finances, tipping etiquette can be tricky especially when long-distance moving takes more time, energy, and logistics than local relocations.
The fact of the matter is long distance movers do physically demanding work for days at a time and in many cases they will be forced to handle your belongings multiple times at a few different points. Knowing how to tip long distance movers allows you to appreciate them fairly and help save you from feeling awkward or uncertain. This post will discuss when to tip long distance movers, how much to tip your long distance moving company, and what factors to consider when tipping.
Do You Tip Long-Distance Movers?
Yes, tipping long-distance movers is expected in the U.S. and Canada, but it’s not mandatory. Movers are not usually paid high hourly rates, and tips are a nice way to acknowledge a job well done with professionalism and care.
You thought to be generous with them if:
- Everything is cleared safely without breaking anything
- The movers are efficient and timely
- They take care when they move heavy, breakable or awkward items
- They are professional and courteous from start to finish
- They manage stairs, long carries or inclement weather
Although customs on tipping may differ from country to country, tipping is customary and well-received in North America when it comes to movers.
You can read about moving services in Sherman Oaks.
How Much To Tip Movers Long Distance?
There is not a perfect number to tip movers, but there are some industry guidelines that will make deciding easier.
Standard Tip Amounts for Long-Distance Movers
- A reasonable amount to tip movers is $50 to $100 per mover per day.
- When the move is more complicated or takes more than one day, tip on the high end of the scale.
- When the service is better than expected, tipping a bit more than the norm is never a bad idea.
Percentage-Based Tipping Option
Some people tip by a percentage of the entire cost of a move:
- 10% of total cost apportioned amongst the crew
- Sample: For a $3,000 move, tip anywhere between $150 and $300.
There are pros and cons to both tipping options flat rate and percent-based, decide what’s best suits your budget and your comfort level.
Tipping Long Distance Movers with Separate Crews
Long-distance moving companies may have different teams at origin and destination. In such instances:
- Tip each team separately
- Modify the tip according to the effort and quality of service
- You can tip movers who are loading your items at your origin, as well as those who are unloading them at your destination.
That way you know that those who helped with your move are all recognized.”
If you’re still wondering is it typical to tip movers for shorter jobs, the answer is yes—but even a smaller amount is appreciated. For packing services in Sherman Oaks, contact Chamomile Go.
When To Tip Movers Long Distance
- When to Gift Long Distance Movers is as Important as How Much to Gift Them.
- The Best Time to Gift
- Wait for the tip till after the work is done, when you have verified that everything came in safely.
- You can also add a gratuity when you pay with a credit or debit card.
- If a moving crew takes more than 1 day for your move, it is commonsense to tip at the end of each day.
Preferred Payment Method
- Cash are tips that he remember the most.
- Some movers do take digital payments, but only if they explicitly state that.
Read More: Should You Tip Movers?
Factors That Should Influence Your Tip
Consider the distance, but let your tip be an expression of the total experience, distance or not.
Quality of Service
- Were they careful, clean and polite?
- Did they line fragile items?
- Did they work quickly but not come away looking like they were rushing or potentially damaging your things?
Difficulty of the Move
- Several flights of stairs
- Bulky or heavy furniture items
- Tight Hallways or Limited Parking
- Long carrying distances from truck to house
Weather Conditions
- Heat wave, rain or snow, humidity or any other environmentally unfriendly condition
- Moving companies bad weather bonus
Duration of the Move
- Short moves: bottom end of the scale
- Longer or long- distance moves: the upper end of the tipping scale
Local vs. Long-Distance Tipping Comparison
Local Moves
- $20-$50 per mover for half-day jobs
- $40-$80 per mover for full-day work
Long-Distance Moves
- $50 to $100 per mover per day
- About $100 to $200 in total per mover for moving across several days
Long-distance moves also require more packing, organizing and accountability, so tipping should be commensurate with the extra effort.
Other Ways to Support Movers (In Addition to Tips)
Sure they are no substitute for tipping, but you can imagine the movers were both delighted and touched to receive these types of treats:
- Bottled water or cold drinks are always welcome
- Ordering lunch when you have a long day of moving
- Snacks for multi-day moves
- Post a positive review online
Often, just a few simple things like this can take a lot of stress away and make for a smoother moving day for everyone, when morale is high and everyone is moving quickly.
When Is It Okay Not to Tip?
Even though tipping is customary, its all right to skip the tip if the service was not up to par.
Valid reasons include:
- Movers are hours behind schedule and haven’t communicated
- Items are damaged due to carelessness
- Unprofessional or discourteous conduct
- Work is not completed
If there are problems, take note of what happened and then get in touch with the moving company to resolve your issues.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how much to tip long distance movers enables you to be prepared and express your gratitude appropriately. The general suggestion of $50 to $100 per mover per day or 5 to 10 percent of the total moving cost serves most long distance moves well. Service quality, the complexity of your move, and the time needed should always be taken into consideration.
For a long-distance move and you want dependable, professional service from start to finish, Chamomile Go is ready to assist. Reach out to us today for a no-obligation quote and move with assurance as your belongings are being handled by trusted professionals.
FAQs
How Much Should I Tip Movers For A Long-Distance Move?
For long-distance moves, it’s customary to tip $50–$100 per mover per day, depending on service quality, job difficulty, and duration. Some also choose to tip 5%–10% of the total moving cost, split among the crew.
Should I Tip Both The Loading And Unloading Crews Separately?
Yes. Long-distance moves often involve different teams at each end. It’s appropriate to tip each team separately based on their individual performance.
Is Tipping Movers Mandatory For Long-Distance Relocations?
No, tipping is not mandatory, but it’s a standard way to show appreciation for hard work—especially during multi-day or cross-country moves.
Can I Tip Movers With Something Other Than Cash?
While cash is preferred, you can also provide meals, cold drinks, or snacks—especially for long moves. Positive online reviews are another great way to thank them.
What Factors Affect How Much I Should Tip For A Long-Distance Move?
Consider the length of the move, number of movers, complexity, weather, and care of your belongings when deciding on an appropriate tip.
