There are etiquette guidelines that come with almost every interaction with other human beings. For example, you waiting quietly in line when you visit the grocery store or leave a tip when you eat at a restaurant. You probably don't think about these actions because you do them so often. When it comes time to hire a moving company, you might be unsure what the etiquette is. Well, here are the basic guidelines you should follow.
1. Clear the way.
The first etiquette guideline applies before your movers even arrive. Make sure the way is cleared for them. This includes clearing a spot for them to park the moving truck. It also involves making sure items are moved out of hallways so the movers can walk through easily. Pick up rugs so the movers won't trip. Clear space in front of the doorways. Imagine you were moving everything out of your house and into the moving truck, and ensure the home is in a state where that can happen easily.
2. Stay out of the way.
Sometimes homeowners, with good intentions, end up trying too hard to help out their movers. You might be tempted to help move boxes or load the truck. But in doing so, you're likely to get in the way of the movers and slow them down. They have their own process, and they work together as a team. You've paid them to do this for you — so you don't need to help. The best thing you can do is stay out of the way.
3. Be available.
Even though you need to stay out of the way, you also need to be reachable in case the movers have a question or concern. You can stay on-site; just tell the movers what room you're hanging out in. Or, you can give them your cell phone number, tell them to call if there is a problem, and go somewhere within about a 10-minute drive so you can get back to your home quickly if needed.
4. Leave a tip.
It is considered proper to tip your movers. Some people like to tip about 10% of the total moving fees. Others like to tip each mover about $10 for a half-day or $20 for a full day. The most important thing is that you do leave a tip.
Moving etiquette may never come as naturally as etiquette at a grocery store or restaurant, but with the knowledge you now have, you will at least know the basic things to do and to avoid doing.
