September 28, 2022 Posted in Moving Tips

Are You Supposed to Tip Movers From Seattle to California and Vice Versa

When you’re relocating interstate, there are many things to consider, and one of those things is whether or not you should provide movers with a bonus. So, are you supposed to tip movers? In this post, we’ll explore the tipping customs for movers when traveling long distances and provide you with the answer of why, when, and how much you should tip. Keep reading to learn more!

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Yes, you should tip your movers, but only if they did a good job helping you move. The amount of the bonus is up to you and will depend on a number of factors, including the level of service you received and the number of movers who assisted you. Generally speaking, most people will tip each mover $20-$40 for a full day’s work. If you’re particularly satisfied with the service you received, you may want to raise this amount. If you’re unhappy with the service, on the other hand, it is reasonable to tip less or not at all.

When Did Tipping Become a Practice?

One custom that varies widely from country to country is tipping. In some cultures, it is seen as an optional way to show appreciation for good service, while in others, it is expected and even required by law. But where did this custom come from?

The word “tip” actually dates back to the 15th century, when it was used to refer to a small piece of land or a gratuity. The first recorded use of the word in reference to a bonus given to service workers didn’t occur until 1706. It’s thought that the custom of tipping originated in England, where noblemen would often give gifts – or “tips” – to their servants.

The practice of tipping spread to America in the early 19th century, where it was initially confined to the upper classes. Tips were given for services such as carrying luggage or opening doors. It wasn’t until the latter half of the century that tipping began to gain popularity among the general population. By 1896, popular magazines were writing articles on the proper way to the tip, which helped usher in the modern era of tipping etiquette.

Person holding cash for tipping movers during long-distance moving
In some countries, tipping service workers is mandatory

When Are You Supposed to Tip Movers?

Planning a move to a new city can be a stressful endeavor, made all the more complicated by the fact that there’s often a lot of money involved. In addition to getting long-distance moving services, you also have to factor in the cost of additional services, travel expenses, necessary supplies, and so on. With so many expenses to keep track of, it’s easy to see how tipping your movers may not find the way to your relocating to another state checklist.

But even though it may not be required, it’s always appreciated – and usually expected – to tip your movers for a job well done. After all, movers are service workers. If you’re practicing tipping waiters, hairdressers, and people in similar fields, know that the relocation team isn’t that much different. Moreover, if you count all the physically hard work relocation professionals are going through, you’ll realize why tipping (good) movers is almost a standard practice.

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Do You Really Need to Tip Long Distance Movers?

However, keep in mind that mover tipping is not an obligation – the choice is entirely yours. If you’re on a low budget or have a last-minute move and can’t come up with extra money, note that there are many other ways of showing your appreciation.

However, if you can afford tipping movers and packers, and you see they have gone above and beyond to make your move stress-free, providing bonuses is a good way of showing you are grateful for their effort.

So, what is considered an exceptional service that deserves your gratuity? The first thing you should expect from your movers is a professional attitude. They should be respectful of you and your belongings and take care not to damage any of your property. They should also be able to answer any questions you have about the relocation process. The same goes for packers if you decide to get professional packing services.

You should also expect your movers to be prompt and help you move efficiently, not procrastinate their work. They should be able to get the job done quickly and without any issues. Even if some issue occurs during the relocation day preparations, they will be able to address and come to a solution as soon as possible. In conclusion, if professionals, as a team or as individuals, contributed to a smooth move without any hassle, they deserve a bonus.

Are There Situations Where You Don’t Have to Tip Cross-Country Movers?

Do you tip moving companies if you receive bad service? If the team did a poor job of helping you move, don’t feel obligated to tip. This includes things like damaged furniture, broken belongings, and lost items. If the movers were negligent, unprofessional, or otherwise made your move more difficult than it needed to be, then you aren’t required to leave a tip. This also applies if they were late, unprofessional, or disrespectful in any way. In short, if you’re not satisfied with the job done and you notice many relocation mistakes, then you don’t have to tip.

Cross-country movers packing furniture
The team that slacks of don't deserve a bonus

How Much Do You Tip Movers From Seattle to California and Vice Versa?

In general, relocation from California to Seattle would be considered long-distance. It’s a pretty big move, and it would likely take a lot of planning and effort to make it happen. That is why many people decide to hire movers from California to Seattle (or those from Seattle to California – if they are relocating to a new home in the other direction). But what is a standard tip for movers when it comes to relocating to another state?

As a general rule of thumb, you should plan on tipping each mover:

  • $20 for a small job,
  • $40 for a medium-sized job,
  • $60 for a large job.

Suppose you’re working with a team of four movers; that comes out to $80-$120 for an average-sized move. Of course, you don’t have to stick to these amounts—you can always give more or less depending on the level of service you receive. For example, you might want to give a larger tip if your movers went above and beyond what was expected or if they had to deal with some particularly challenging situations (like stairs or heavy furniture). Conversely, you might give a smaller tip (or no tip at all) if your movers were rude or unprofessional.

Keep in mind that not all moves are the same. You should count on many different factors when determining the amount, such as the size of your household inventory list, the type of your belongings, and even whether you have residential or corporate relocation. Additionally, consider that relocation in winter, as well as relocating in the rain, is much more demanding than organizing the move during perfect weather conditions. The more challenging the move is, the higher the bonus professionals deserve.

Should You Tip Movers Based on the Total Relocation Price?

One thing is for certain: if the company requires that you give the employees a portion of the overall fee, don’t invest in them because it’s probably a relocation scam. Although there is the opportunity to tip employees in this manner, we do not advise doing so for a long-distance move.

Cross-country moves are costly, and providing bonuses based on the final cost of the move may be too expensive. You shouldn’t put your relocation budget at risk by tipping the crew based on a percentage of the whole charge. Rather than that, we advise you to go with the average tip for movers we present above.

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When Should You Provide a Bonus – When Loading or Unloading?

If everything went smoothly and your belongings were handled with care, it’s appropriate to tip after the job is completed. This gives you a chance to inspect everything and make sure there was no damage caused by the move.

However, it might be tricky with the logistics of a long-distance move. It’s more likely that you’ll have two teams to work with, one in Seattle and the other in California, and they both deserve a bonus for the job well done. That is why your best option is to contact the cross-country moving company and ask about the number of workers expected in both places. That way, you can divide the amount you dedicated for gratuity between all the team members in two locations.

Two cross-country movers on a truck
Count on two separate teams when relocating between two states

What Is the Best Way for Tipping a Moving Company?

There are a few different ways that you can tip your movers, depending on what is most convenient for you. You can give them a cash tip at the end of the move, add a gratuity to your final bill, or use a credit card or check. Some companies also allow you to pre-tip their workers before the move begins. However, not all companies are the same, so make sure you contact the company representatives and ask how you can provide tips.

Who Should Accept Your Tips?

Put going to the ATM on your to-do list for the interstate move because cash bonuses it’s the simplest way to tip the long-distance movers. The foreman, whose responsibility is to oversee the workforce, can receive the entire sum, or you can provide cash to each mover individually. If you want to make sure that everyone receives the compensation they are due, we advise you to choose the latter option, even though it might mean more work for you.

woman taking money out of the wallet
The best option is to give a bonus to each crew member individually

What Are Some Additional Ways to Show Appreciation to a Crew From a Long-Distance Moving Company

Providing bonuses is a simple way to let employees know that you’re grateful for their effort and help. Unfortunately, there are situations when your relocation budget will not allow for the gratuities that each worker deserves. If that’s the case, you need to think about some additional methods for rewarding the team for their accomplishments. Check the flowing relocation day tips so you can prepare for movers properly:

Providing food and beverages

Relocating to a new city requires a lot of physically hard work, so make sure you purchase extra food, snacks, and drinks for the team. Make sure the crew stays fed and hydrated by giving them essential refreshments.

Answer the question and be helpful

Address all of the movers’ queries, direct them to the restrooms, and provide adequate soap and towels – just be helpful with everything they may need.

Leave the recommendation

Help the team (or exceptional individuals) receive recognition from their company for their outstanding efforts by leaving a positive review on the company’s website. It will help the company get more business, for which your team may be rewarded by their employer.

Be kind and respectful

Relocation day can be quite stressful, which can negatively affect someone’s emotional and mental well-being and, consequently, the way they behave. But if you want to receive respect and courtesy from the crew, you must be respectful as well. After all, respect and professionalism are necessary for effective collaboration.

Reliable and Reputable Movers Will Most Likely Deserve the Bonus

Trustworthy and experienced movers will do everything necessary so that your move is handled in a professional manner from start to finish. Therefore, consider providing bonuses for the exceptional services they will most likely provide. If you’re looking for a mover that can offer you a stress-free relocation, then it’s definitely worth considering paying a little extra for their additional effort.

Milly Andrews

Milly is a Portland prodigy of packing and relocating! She has been on the move her whole life, and she's got the moving boxes and stories to prove it. With her vast experience in the art of relocation, she's like a human GPS, always finding the most efficient way to navigate the moving process.

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