Skip to main content
A woman counting dollar bills
How Much to Tip Movers for a Local Move
Are you getting ready for a local move in Illinois and wondering if you should tip your movers? You’re not alone! While tipping may not be mandatory, it can be a thoughtful way for you to show your appreciation for a job well done. Moving can be a lot of physical work, and a good […]

Are you getting ready for a local move in Illinois and wondering if you should tip your movers? You’re not alone! While tipping may not be mandatory, it can be a thoughtful way for you to show your appreciation for a job well done. Moving can be a lot of physical work, and a good crew can make the relocation smooth for you. Mighty Moving & Storage will go into depth about tipping local movers, including when, why, and how much to tip movers for a local move. 

Do You Tip Movers?

Yes, we do encourage tipping your movers, especially when they have provided exceptional service. Most moving companies, including Mighty Moving & Storage, don’t include gratuity in their quotes. That means while tipping isn’t required, it can be considered proper etiquette and a nice gesture to thank your moving crew for their professionalism and care.

If you are asking yourself, “ Are you supposed to tip movers?” the short answer is yes. It is always greatly appreciated.  

How Much to Tip Local Movers

When it comes to tipping local movers, a common guideline for how much to tip local movers is 15-20% of the total moving cost, when you have received exceptional service. Some people prefer to tip based on the number of hours the local movers work, typically at a rate of $10 to $20 per mover per hour. 

For instance, if a local move takes around four hours and you have a team of three movers, a tip between $120 and $180 total will be well-received. Of course, how much you want to tip is completely your decision and should reflect the service you received.  

Factors to Consider When Deciding How Much to Tip

When you are deciding how much to tip movers for a local move, here are some key factors to consider:

  • Difficulty of the move: Did the movers have to handle staircases, narrow hallways, or heavy items such as a piano or appliances?
  • Level of care: Were your belongings handled safely and securely?
  • Professionalism: Did the local movers arrive at the scheduled time and work efficiently?
  • Extra effort: Did they have to disassemble or assemble furniture? Did they go above and beyond your expectations?

Showing Appreciation for Your Movers

You can tip movers individually or give the foreman one total amount to distribute to the moving crew. Cash tips are typically preferred because they can be easily divided and appreciated on the spot. Before you tip, check your moving contract or ask the local moving company if there is a gratuity policy. Transparency will ensure that your tip is handled properly. 

Even if you are still unsure about tipping, offering the moving crew refreshments is another great way to show appreciation to your movers. Provide bottled water or sodas to show that you appreciate their hard work. For long or full-day moves, consider providing lunch such as pizza or sandwiches to show your care. 

Looking for Trusted Local Movers in Chicago?

If you’re planning for a local move and need a dependable and professional moving company in Illinois, Mighty Moving & Storage is here to help. Our experienced team specializes in local moves throughout Illinois and the Chicago area. We offer transparent pricing and exceptional client care during all of our moves. 

Get your free moving quote today to schedule your next move, whether it is residential or commercial.

Table of Content
Recent Posts
View All
Feb 17th, 2022 How to Prepare for a Move
moving cost
Nov 25th, 2025 How Much Do Local Movers in Chicago Cost?
A house covered in snow
Nov 25th, 2025 Tips for Moving in Chicago During the Winter
Moving With Kids
Nov 25th, 2025 Moving With Kids
Nov 25th, 2024 Living in Hinsdale, Illinois: A Family-Friendly Haven
May 15th, 2024 2024 Chicago Festivals and Events: A Guide
Aug 14th, 2023 Optimal Local Move Storage Services
Related Blogs
View All
moving cost
Nov 25th, 2025
How Much Do Local Movers in Chicago Cost?
Planning a short move across the city or a hop from one neighborhood to the next? Mighty Moving, a trusted moving company in Chicago, Illinois, breaks down what you can expect to pay and how pricing really works here. This guide covers hourly rates by crew size, typical totals by home size, add-ons and fees, […]
A house covered in snow
Nov 25th, 2025
Tips for Moving in Chicago During the Winter
Moving in Chicago during winter can be unpredictable. Cold temperatures, icy streets, and early sunsets can turn an already challenging day into a major test of timing and preparation. Still, many Chicago residents find that moving during the winter can actually be smoother and more affordable if you plan ahead and work with the right […]
Packing boxes
Dec 7th, 2022
Pros vs. Cons to Self-Packing for A Local Move
Whether you’re moving across the city or just to the next suburb, moving is a big deal. One of the most important parts of a move is packing up all your household items. Packing up all your belongings must happen before you can actually move and there are many things to consider: Do you hire […]
Local moving checklist
Nov 16th, 2022
Checklist for Your Chicago Move
You have made the big decision to pack up and move across the city for an exciting new adventure in life. That was the hard part. Now comes the planning to make sure everything goes as smooth as you want it to.  Packing up your life into boxes can be stressful and make you question […]