Tipping movers in Los Angeles is optional, but many customers give somewhere around $20 to $50 per mover, with smaller amounts for short moves and more for long, hard days. Some people instead tip a percentage of the bill, often in the 10% to 20% range, when the crew did great work.
Is tipping required?
No. Your bill covers the labor and the truck. A tip is a thank-you for good service, not a fee. You should never feel pressured to tip, and a good crew will treat you the same either way.
Typical tipping ranges
These are common ranges people use, not rules:
- Short move (about 3 to 4 hours): often $20 to $30 per mover.
- Half-day move (about 4 to 6 hours): often $30 to $40 per mover.
- Full-day or difficult move: often $40 to $50 or more per mover.
If you prefer percentages, 10% to 20% of the total is a range many people use for local moves.
What should change the amount?
Stairs and long carries. Third-floor walk-ups and long hallways in LA apartment buildings are hard work. Many people tip more for them.
Heavy or awkward items. Pianos, safes, large sectionals and armoires take skill and effort.
Care and attitude. Did the crew pad furniture, protect floors and door frames, and keep you informed? That is worth recognizing.
Weather. Moving in Valley heat in August is tough. A little extra is a kind gesture.
Speed and organization. A crew that works steadily and finishes on time saves you money on an hourly move.
How to give the tip
- Cash is easiest. Hand it to each mover directly, or to the crew lead and ask them to split it.
- Tip at the end. Wait until everything is in place and you have checked for damage.
- Ask about other options. If you do not have cash, ask if a payment app or adding it to your card is possible.
Other ways to say thank you
Cold water and sports drinks are always welcome, especially in summer. Some people buy lunch on a long day. And one of the most helpful thank-yous is a review. Mentioning your neighborhood and the type of move, like “2-bedroom apartment move in Van Nuys,” helps other people find a good crew.
Tipping and your total budget
If you are planning a budget, add a little for a possible tip on top of the moving cost. At Giant Movers 365, local moves are $129 per hour for 2 movers or $164 per hour for 3 movers, with a 3-hour minimum. Our guide to how much movers cost in Los Angeles shows typical totals, and our Los Angeles apartment moving checklist helps you plan the day.
FAQ
Do I have to tip movers in Los Angeles? No. Tipping is optional and based on your experience.
How much should I tip each mover? Many people give about $20 to $50 per mover, depending on how long and hard the move was.
Should I tip the crew lead more? Some people do, but splitting evenly is also common.
Is it OK to give drinks or food instead? Yes. Water, snacks or lunch are appreciated, with or without a cash tip.
Book a Los Angeles move
Giant Movers 365 is a licensed California mover (CA Mover MTR 0192654, USDOT 3963538) based in Canoga Park with 20+ years of experience and a 4.8-star Google rating from 220 reviews. We serve Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita and Ventura. Call (310) 988-5051, 8 AM to 9 PM daily, or see our local moving services.
