Moving Day Etiquette 101: Tips, Tipping, and Thoughtful Touches
Help your move go smoothly with a few courteous steps — and the right attitude from the start.
By Blue Cow Moving & Storage | April 16, 2025
Moving day can be hectic, but a little courtesy goes a long way — especially when you’ve got a hardworking crew handling furniture, stairs, and weather surprises. This moving day etiquette guide helps you prep with confidence and avoid common mistakes. Whether you're hiring professionals or relying on friends, it's worth learning how to set the right tone from the start. Even with the best planning, unexpected delays and last-minute changes can occur. But when you treat your movers — whether professional or personal — with respect, the day tends to go more smoothly. A smile, a thank-you, and a few small touches can create a cooperative and relaxed environment. You don’t need to go overboard; just showing you’re organized and appreciative makes a big difference. When everyone feels valued, the work gets done faster and with greater care.
Moving Day Etiquette: Should You Tip Movers?
It’s customary to tip your movers if they do a good job. Just like restaurant servers or delivery drivers, your moving team is providing a physically demanding service. Showing appreciation can boost morale and motivate them throughout the day. Tipping also helps reward extra effort — like navigating tight staircases, carefully handling fragile items, or working through rain and heat. It's a way to recognize the challenges they face and acknowledge that their work matters.
There are two common ways to tip:
- $5–$10 per hour per mover
- Or 10–20% of the total move cost, split between the crew
For example, a two-person crew working four hours might receive $40–$80 total. In comparison, a three-person full-day team might be tipped $150–$300. It’s best to provide cash directly to each mover when the job is done. If you'd prefer to include the tip in your invoice, ask your company in advance. Always confirm with your moving company about tipping policies before the job starts. Some teams pool tips evenly, while others prefer individual recognition. Either way, delivering the tip with a thank-you and handshake helps it feel more personal and appreciated.
Other Ways to Show Good Moving Day Etiquette
Even if tipping isn’t possible, you can still support your crew in meaningful ways. Courtesy, preparation, and hospitality go a long way toward a better moving experience for everyone involved. These small gestures aren’t just thoughtful — they’re practical, too. A hydrated and appreciated crew is more likely to stay focused, work safely, and keep things moving efficiently. Being kind is free, and it often comes back to you in the form of better service and a smoother day overall.
- Provide cold drinks like bottled water or sports drinks
- Offer a snack or pizza lunch for full-day moves
- Be packed and ready: tape boxes, disassemble beds, and clear hallways
You don’t need to offer anything extravagant. Even a basic cooler with water bottles and granola bars can make a tough day more manageable. If you’re planning a longer move or multiple stops, offering something like pizza or sandwiches can give the crew a chance to recharge. More importantly, making sure your home is ready to go when they arrive — with clear pathways, secured pets, and packed boxes — shows you respect their time and effort. That kind of mutual respect makes a difference.
Moving Day Etiquette Table: Dos and Don’ts
| DO | DON’T |
|---|---|
| Greet the crew and walk through expectations | Hover over them or interrupt their flow |
| Label fragile items clearly | Leave valuables unsecured or unlabeled |
| Secure pets and keep kids out of the way | Disappear without sharing your contact number |
| Show where bathrooms and trash bins are located | Forget to thank or acknowledge their effort |
These dos and don’ts aren’t about being overly formal — they’re about creating a work environment that helps your move go faster, smoother, and with fewer issues. For instance, starting the day with a brief walkthrough gives the crew clarity on what’s most important. On the flip side, hovering or micromanaging can slow things down and create tension. A few thoughtful actions at the start of the day can set the tone for positive momentum all the way through to the last box.
How to Prepare for Moving Day Success
Start by making space. Reserve driveway or street parking if possible. Then, take photos of fragile or high-value items. These give you peace of mind and help with insurance claims, if needed. Even just a few quick snapshots can make a huge difference if there’s any question about the condition of your items before the move. If you live in a community with parking restrictions, contact your HOA or city office in advance to avoid tickets or last-minute surprises.
Next, disconnect and drain any appliances. Be sure to wipe down entryways, sweep porches, and remove tripping hazards like rugs. Lastly, keep your phone nearby in case the crew has questions or needs access to anything. Have a small toolkit on hand for reassembling beds or removing doors if needed. Pack a few cleaning supplies separately in case you need to do a last-minute wipe-down after the truck is loaded. It’s also smart to prepare a “first-night” box with essentials like paper towels, toilet paper, lightbulbs, and your favorite coffee.
Moving Day Checklist for Homeowners
- Label boxes and disassemble large furniture in advance
- Clear driveways, entryways, and hallways
- Offer water, snacks, or a simple lunch
- Be present and check in respectfully
- Decide how you'll tip — cash or invoice
These checklist items are more than just helpful reminders — they’re critical steps for keeping your move on track. Labeling boxes saves time during unloading, especially when your movers can easily identify what goes where. Disassembling beds and other large furniture ahead of time ensures the crew doesn’t have to stop and wait for parts or tools. Keeping pathways clear not only helps with efficiency but also reduces the risk of tripping, damage, or injury.
Being present doesn’t mean you need to hover. Just be available, especially during the initial walk-through and final load-out. If you’re busy with other things, let the crew know how to reach you. And when it comes to tipping, having cash on hand or arranging with your moving coordinator in advance eliminates any awkwardness at the end of the day.
