A common conundrum in the US service industry is gratuities – how much should we tip those who assist us? When you dine out or get a haircut, it is customary to tip, but what should you offer those who move your home?
Should I Tip My Movers? And, How Much?
Since the average American doesn’t move very often (average is five to seven years), it’s easy to forget to leave a gratuity with your movers. It’s easier to remember and know how much to tip services we use more frequently – like dining out and personal grooming. So what to do?
Of course, every moving company will say to customers who ask that "gratuities are never required but are always appreciated." Some customers who might not have the means to give cash tips often provide the movers with water, sports drinks, snacks or lunch as a small gesture of thanks.
For those looking to leave a tip with their movers, the industry recommendation is:
- between $3 and $7 per mover, per hour on the job, with a $5 tip per hour being the average.
- you can also tip 5-10% of your total bill, which often works out the same as the $5/hour principle.
- You may feel compelled to adjust these amounts depending on how many flights of stairs are in your home, the weather conditions on your moving day, completing the move at an exceptional speed or the volume of items you must move.
At the end of the day, the discretion is completely up to the customer.
Source: gentlegiant.com
