When & How to Set Up Utilities Before You Move

You’ve found the house of your dreams. You’ve hired the top residential movers in Austin to help with your move. But before you can start your new life, you need to set up utilities. 

Setting up utilities for a new house is an important part of ensuring your new residence is move-in ready from the minute you get the keys. We’ll break down the process for you so you’re ready to enjoy your new home the second you unlock the front door.

Why Utility Setup Matters

Unless you’re renting an apartment where all of the utilities might be included in your monthly bill, you’ll need to set up your own before you move. Services like electricity, water, sewer, natural gas, and trash pickup don’t just start the minute you get the keys. 

If you don’t put the utilities under your name before you start using them, the providers may cut off your service with no warning. They may also charge you administrative fees in addition to setup fees to turn them back on. 

Utilities To Arrange

If this is your first time moving and setting up your utilities, you may wonder, "What utilities do I need?”

The specific utilities you need to arrange depend on where you’re moving, but generally, your utility setup checklist should include:

• Electricity

• Water

• Sewer (if you don’t have a septic tank)

• Natural Gas

• Trash/recycling pickup

• Internet (not a classic utility, but increasingly referred to as such due to the surge in telecommuting)

If you plan to have TV or landline phone service, you’ll want to schedule those services as well. 

You may find that some of these services are included or not required. For example, an apartment may include water and sewer in the rent, or a more recently built home may not have a natural gas connection, relying instead on electricity or alternative methods for heating or hot water.

Some utilities may also be provided through the city or municipality as a single bill. Cities may arrange electric, water, trash, or internet service through their own provider, netting residents discounts. Check on these possibilities before setting up your own utilities.

When To Set Up Each Service

When setting up utilities for a new house, keep in mind that you can typically schedule the first day of service well in advance, so you don't have to rush to transfer service or open a new account the morning of your move. 

In fact, waiting until the last minute may lead to extremely inconvenient and expensive problems. Generally, you want the utilities to be active and in your name on the day you get your keys.

Try to start the setup process at least two or three weeks before your anticipated move. This ensures you won’t incur any last-minute transfer or cancellation fees, and you won’t face delays if new utilities require installation or activation before your move.

How To Transfer vs. Start New Accounts

If you’re not moving to another state or city, you may already have some utility accounts that you can simply transfer over to your new address. In many of those cases, you’ll be able to initiate a transfer through an online account or customer portal. For others, you may need to call the utility’s customer service phone line to transfer your services.

If you don’t have a current utility provider, the provider you currently use is unavailable in your new neighborhood, or you simply want to switch service providers, you’ll need to set up a new account. Some providers allow you to open a new account online and may even offer new customer discounts or other incentives for doing so. Others require a phone call or an in-person visit to set up a new service.

Info You’ll Need to Set Up Utilities

An important part of knowing how to set up utilities is identifying and gathering the right information before you begin the process. 

Your future service provider may ask for:

• Your full name

• Your social security number

• Your date of birth

• A copy of your driver’s license or ID

• Your current contact information (phone number, email)

• The address of your new home

• The date of your move

• Your payment method

• Employment information or income verification

• Your current address (for communication prior to your move)

Transferring an existing utility account generally requires less information, since the provider already has most of it. To transfer service, you’ll probably need:

• Your current account number

• Your new address

• The date of your move

The current provider may also ask for a copy of your ID or other identity verification to protect your account.

Get Help With Your Austin Move

Once you set up utilities for your move, get help with everything else by working with the top moving company in Austin, MASH Movers. Our team makes moving easy and stress-free so you can concentrate on making your new space a home. 

Our staff loves the city and wants to make it a beautiful—and welcoming—place for everyone. We’d love to be your friendly Austin moving services company. Contact us for a free quote on your next relocation!

How Far in Advance to Book Movers in Austin: A Timeline Guide

The key to a low-stress move is knowing what needs to be done and when, so you can create a comprehensive moving plan. The first step is nailing down the relocation date. Once you have that, it’s time to decide how you’ll move: on your own, or with the help of professionals.

Professional movers not only make the process faster and easier, but also enable you to focus less on the heavy lifting and more on making your new space a home. But before they can do that, you’ll need to book them! 

Understanding how far in advance to book movers, especially in the bustling Austin area, could be key to making sure that you’re ready to go on the big day. Let’s take a closer look at how to map out your timeline.

Why Early Booking Matters

So, how far in advance do you actually need to book movers to have a smooth experience? Booking as early as possible gives you plenty of time to run price estimates, avoid the higher fees that can come with booking close to your move date, and lock in a day that works with your work schedule. Booking early can actually save you up to 30 percent on moving costs.

Ideally, you should book your moving company in Austin two or three months ahead of time. If that timeline isn’t possible, try everything in your power to finalize movers four weeks out. 

However, there are a few different factors that can affect when to hire movers, like:

• The size of your home

• The season of your move

• The distance you’re moving

• The nature of the items you’re moving (such as size and fragility)

Seasonal and Event-Related Demand in Austin

How early to book movers can also depend on when you want to move. If you want to move in peak season in Austin, during the summer months, start looking for moving companies at least three months out to lock in your date. Movers tend to get extremely busy in late July and early August, when students at UT-Austin are settling in for the fall semester. 

Many families also see summer as a good time to move when kids are out of school, and parents may be able to take a few days off to get organized. The weather is hot, but central Texas usually sees less rain by the time July rolls around. Because this is a popular time to move, you should book your moving team as soon as you can to secure your date.

If your move-in date is flexible, relocating during the winter months offers more availability for choosing a moving day and booking furniture movers in Austin. As a bonus, it’s also going to be cheaper to move off-season.

Recommended Timelines by Home Size

Knowing when to book movers also hinges on the size of your home. Packing up a small apartment is much faster and easier than packing up a large home, especially if you have bulky or fragile items like pianos, chandeliers, and artwork. A greater number of items, as well as larger ones, means it will probably take more people, trucks, and time to get the job done.

When shopping around for movers, you should mention whether you want full-service moving, such as packing and unpacking, as this will add extra time and equipment. If you have a large home, book early so that your moving company can have the right team and equipment ready on the day of your move.

Weekday vs. Weekend Availability

As you can probably imagine, weekends are a lot more popular for moving than weekdays. Moving Monday through Thursday is usually cheaper and more flexible than moving on the weekends. If you want to move during the week, you can typically wait a little longer to book, but you should book at least two months out if you want to move during the weekend.

The time of the month also matters. Many people plan their moves for the end of the month when their leases are up, so moving companies’ availability can quickly diminish as each month rolls along. If you anticipate your moving day to be towards the end of the month, book your services as soon as possible.

Book MASH Movers, the Best Movers in Austin

MASH Movers is a dedicated team of locals who love good music, Austin’s vibes, and welcoming new neighbors to the city that we love so much. We offer full-service moving for all kinds of jobs, both big and small, and make it easy to schedule your move with just a call or a click. 

Reach out to MASH Movers today to get a risk-free quote and learn more about how we can help you schedule your move to Austin!

How to Maximize Space in a Small Apartment: Decorating Tips & More

Small-apartment living is becoming increasingly common due to housing trends, market forces, and the realization that people can do more with less space. There are several benefits to having a smaller home (less to clean!), but the trick is to know how to maximize what you’re working with.

We have gathered some tips for small-apartment decorating and organizing that can help you make the most of your cozy space. 

Why Layout and Organization Matter

If you’re moving into a high-rise apartment or other relatively small space, the key is to stay organized. Staying organized means you might have to declutter before doing anything else. Minimal clutter can pave the way for an apartment that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. 

As you take in the layout, try to fill all the dead space—places that are usually overlooked and have no inherent functionality. These spaces can be creatively used for storage or decoration. You’ll also want to start creating zones in your apartment, like a distinct area for relaxing, another for getting work done, and possibly another for entertaining, if you have the space.

Designating spaces, which you can separate with decoration, furniture, or even physical partitioning, can help your space feel bigger than it is.

Small Apartment Decorating Tips

While decorating your apartment should spark plenty of joy and creativity, it also helps to prioritize organization and functionality. Make the most of your limited space with these tiny apartment decor ideas. 

Vertical and Hidden Storage Options

One of the keys to making a small apartment interior feel more spacious is to use your vertical space as much as possible. Walls aren’t just for decoration! Think of your walls as a blank canvas you can fill with tasteful storage, like shelving, racks, or even cookware. Not only does this save you space, but it also looks homey and inviting. 

Fill your vertical storage with items such as books, plants, and personal items like bags, jewelry, and recreational equipment. These are personal touches that show off who you are while keeping things organized, tidy, and visually appealing.

Multi-Use Furniture Ideas

Before you move in or start shelling out cash on new furniture, measure your space very carefully. While you want furniture that works for you and the people in your home, you want to make sure it’s not too big or restrictive. You and your guests will need at least some floor space for moving around!

Once you have your measurements, you can start investing in pieces that serve multiple functions. For example, beds with built-in storage underneath (including drawers) are perfect for storing clothes and miscellaneous items. Other things to think about are couches that lift up to give room for storage, foldable tables and desks you can clear away, or even dining room tables with small drawers for things like silverware and napkins.

If you have the floor space, consider getting a storage ottoman or coffee table for your living area. Choose a chic but functional item to fill with small elements for which you otherwise don’t have a place.

Smart Lighting and Décor

Not all tiny apartment ideas are about storage. In fact, there are a few simple tricks you can use to make your space seem bigger—and they are all about décor. Opt for neutral tones on your walls, as these naturally reflect more light and really open up a room. Use overhead lighting, such as chandeliers and wall sconces, to free up floor and table space while creating a nice glow that reflects off your neutral walls.

A few well-placed mirrors can also reflect light and open up a room. A wall or floor-length mirror is not only functional for your life but also creates the illusion of adding more space. 

Keeping your curtains open during the day also has the same effect, as you’ll feel less enclosed. Choose floor-length curtains that elongate and draw your eye upward, rather than boxy window treatments that only cover the window itself.

Finding Your Affordable Movers in Austin

Need help with moving so you can turn your small apartment decorating ideas into reality right away? If you're searching for local moving companies in Austin, TX, look no further than MASH Movers. 

Why? We’re your local apartment movers in Austin who love what we do and are proud to call this city our home. Whether you’re new to the city or just moving across town, we’ll be ready to lend a helping hand with a smile on moving day. Reach out to us now to learn more and get a free quote!

What to Know Before Moving With a Dog

Most dogs love adventures, but leaving a familiar home—forever—isn't the same as a trip to the dog park. If you're planning on moving with your dog, there are some things you can do to help your furry friend make the adjustment. Here's how to make the moving process easy and stress-free.

How Moving Impacts Dogs

As trainers and dog specialists frequently point out, structure and routine help dogs feel safe and secure. They know what's expected of them and where to go to have their needs met.

When routine falls apart, many dogs become nervous and unsure of exactly what is expected of them. That's because dogs aren’t always great at generalizing positive behaviors, meaning they need help transferring skills from one place to another. For instance, they may have learned not to bark at your current neighbors, but they might have trouble understanding that those rules apply at their new home.

It can help to remember that dogs have the mental maturity of a human toddler. They know things are different, but they don't know why or what that means for their safety. Helping them feel more comfortable can go a long way toward easing their transition during and after a move. 

Pre-Move Prep Tips for Your Four-Legged Friend

For dogs, the disruption of a move starts well before the large trucks arrive. You can make things easier for them by gradually bringing empty boxes into the house and letting them sniff them. Heavy chewers will need supervision for this process. 

As you start packing, let them investigate what you're doing. Allow them to sniff your bubble wrap or newspapers with supervision. You can even bring their bed and toys into the room while you pack, so they can be extra comfortable.

Notify any packing helpers about your dog, and encourage them to give it a treat if they're comfortable. As a full-service moving company in Austin, TX, our team wants to make the process as easy as possible for your whole family—including your pets.

Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations, especially if you plan to board them during the move. If your dog is prone to anxiety, think about scheduling a vet visit to talk about anti-anxiety medications or supplements. 

Reducing Stress for Your Pet on Moving Day

Planning ahead can make moving houses with a dog much easier. Start the day with a long walk or an off-leash run in a secure area to burn off their energy. Then, settle them in a closed-off room where the movers won't disturb them.

Make sure they have fresh water, a comfortable place to rest, and access to their favorite toys. Dogs who feel safe in small spaces might want to lie in their crates.

Another option is having them spend the day with a friend or family member. You might also consider sending them to doggy daycare or boarding them starting the night before, but try not to make this their first visit to that location. If no one they know can take them, it may help to have a trial session at the daycare or boarding facility before moving day.

How to Get a Dog Used to a New Home

Before you bring the dog into your new home, set up a quiet corner where they can rest and recover from the day's chores. Have a family member stay with them at first, if possible, and explore the new house with them when they're ready.

Show them where to find their food and water, and lead them through their routine of asking to go outside. Be ready to build a new routine from scratch, especially if the living situation is very different (e.g., house versus apartment, urban versus suburban).

Keep them on their familiar schedule as much as possible, including mealtimes and walks. Some dogs backslide on house training, so be prepared for extra potty breaks and some occasional accidents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving With a Dog

A lot happens with dogs and moving, and you don't want Fido to fall by the wayside. Here are some common missteps we've witnessed as house movers in Austin, TX:

• Not updating tags and microchips: It's not uncommon for dogs to escape and get lost during a move. It’s best to update their ID and chip information at least a week in advance.

• Allowing them to roam too early: Dogs need time to learn the routine of a new home. Keep them with you as you settle into your new surroundings, for both their behavior management and their mental health.

• Leaving them too soon: If possible, avoid moving on the weekend and returning to the office on Monday, leaving them alone in the house not 24 hours after they start to settle in. That’s often not possible, so you could try moving into your place several days before you start your new job.

Let MASH Movers Help: Affordable Movers in Austin

At MASH Movers, we've helped many families with dogs move into, out of, and around our city. We're Austin local movers and musicians who love welcoming new neighbors, including their pets, to the coolest city on Earth. We'd love for you to contact us and let us know how we can help.

Reserving Space for Your Residential Move

Your moving day logistics include more than just packing and loading up the truck. Securing and protecting key spaces during your move helps prevent any damage and makes your whole day go more smoothly. You’ll need to reserve some areas ahead of time so you don’t disturb your neighbors and stay in compliance with local laws, as some moves in Austin may require permits. Here’s what you need to keep in mind to get ready for the upcoming big day.

Parking Space Reservations (At Both Locations)

Moving trucks are big, so make sure you follow the right steps to park one near your home. Consider getting a moving permit for parking both at the home you’re moving out of and the one you’re moving into. This way, you’ll have a clear path from your home to your truck, which makes things safer and easier for you, the moving team, and any neighbors nearby.

You likely don’t need to get a moving permit, but check any Austin-specific regulations, such as getting a City of Austin Right of Way Permit for parking storage units or trucks. If you do need a permit, aim to get it a few days in advance to avoid any issues. As you search for information, double-check to see if there are any size restrictions for parking a moving truck on your street. 

You should also notify your HOA or property manager of the dates and times that you will have a moving truck parked outside. Once your truck is outside, mark off the area with cones or signs if your complex requires it, to alert any neighbors that a move is happening.

Elevator & Building Access (Apartments)

If you live in an apartment or complex, prepare yourself and your neighbors by booking the building’s elevators on your moving day. Do this a week or two in advance so everyone is aware of the situation.

Also, get any necessary gate codes or key fobs for elevators, doors, and entrances between your apartment and the moving truck. To prep for your movers even more, reserve a loading dock, if possible.

On moving day, it’s best to pad the elevator with blankets or cardboard to prevent any scratches and damage. Your neighbors will thank you!

Floor & Property Protection

Preventing damage is one of the top goals on moving day — not just protecting your items, but also the spaces that you’re entering and exiting. 

Interior Spaces

The first step is protecting the floors, including both hardwood and tile. Covering them with cardboard or old rugs helps prevent scratches or dents while moving furniture in and out. If you have carpeting, you can also use cardboard or throw down some plastic to protect the floor and prevent stains.

Next, measure your door frames and add some foam padding around them. This extra protection is handy when moving tall or hefty items through tight doorways.

Exterior Spaces

Most people think about protecting the inside of their homes, but they sometimes forget that outdoor areas need a little care, too. Prepping the exterior keeps the property safe and makes it easier for your movers to do their job.

If the moving truck has to park on gravel or grass, throw plywood down first for protection and stability. Also, take a look around to see if there is any landscaping that needs covering or that you can temporarily move out of the way to make the move a little easier. 

Austin-Specific Considerations

Most residential moves in Austin don’t need a Texas moving permit, but check ahead of time to avoid any surprises. You can apply for a Temporary Use Permit that allows you to park large vehicles, like moving trucks, on the public street in front of your property for a set amount of time, as long as you are within zoning regulations. Keep in mind that city regulations may apply to street closures in some areas around Austin. 

MASH Movers, Your Apartment Movers in Austin, TX

Reserving spaces and parking ahead of time can prevent delays and extra fees, both of which you want to avoid on moving day. Not only that, but proper protection can help save your security deposit and prevent any damage claims. 

If you’re unsure about whether you need a moving permit, check your city’s website to get more information.

At MASH, we’re your go-to movers in Austin, Texas. We love our city, and we love lending a helping hand and a welcoming smile when we arrive. If you’re moving here from afar or just across town, we’ve got you covered. As you look for moving quotes in Austin, be sure to drop us a line!

How to Move Gym Equipment Safely

As you start packing up your house to move, you’ll quickly realize that not everything fits into cardboard boxes. Many items require special care and ways of packing and moving to ensure arrival without a scratch. This includes your home gym setup, which likely has a mix of weights and cardio machines. 

Here’s how to move gym equipment from one home to the next as easily as possible.

Gym Equipment Needs Special Care

During the move, external bumps and shocks can easily damage sensitive internal mechanisms and components of your home gym equipment. This damage can cause your equipment to malfunction later on, so protecting it properly before the move is essential.

Additionally, gym equipment is heavy and bulky, and moving it without proper protection can easily cause injuries. Proper care ensures everyone involved in the move stays safe and sound.

Some equipment is easier to pack and move, such as free weights, exercise bands, and stability balls. Other pieces of equipment, such as weight or cardio machines, may have cables, motors, and components that must be disassembled to move and then reassembled upon arrival.

Pre-Move Prep and Measurements

Before moving a home gym, clean your equipment thoroughly to get it ready to pack. Wipe everything down carefully with a rag and multi-purpose cleaner to remove any dust, sweat, or grime that can cause stains or marks on transportation material or your new home.

Next, sort your equipment into groups. You can pack small items, like bands, clamps, and accessories, into boxes. Medium-sized equipment, like weights and kettlebells, will need a little extra protection, like newspaper. Large machines, like bikes, ellipticals, or weight machines, require more work, like assembly and disassembly (we go into detail about how to do this below).

Measure the items to see whether you can move them without complete disassembly. If they are too large, you will have to take them apart to get them through the door and onto the truck.

Moving Cardio Machines

Here are a few steps for moving your cardio equipment:

1. Unplug all your machines.

2. Check the manual or the brand’s website for disassembly instructions.

3. Start by removing items like pedals, handlebars, or cup holders, and wrap them in paper.

4. Store small wrapped parts in boxes.

5. Determine how to take the machine apart in as few sections as possible. You want to move everything without spending a lot of time taking things apart and putting them back together. 

6. Wrap these sections in blankets and load them onto a dolly.

7. On the dolly, navigate sections of equipment down a clear path to the moving truck. You might need an extra set of hands for this.

Moving Weight Benches and Free Weights

Here’s how to move a home gym with free weights:

1. Small gym items and lighter-weight free weights can be packed in boxes. Wrap them in paper for protection and ensure each box isn’t heavier than about 30 pounds.

2. Box up accessories like clamps and locks so they don’t get lost.

3. Heavy weights and bars can be placed directly on the bed of the moving truck and secured with ropes, straps, or bungee cords. You can cover them with a blanket for safekeeping.

4. If you’re moving a bench, disassemble it and use the wheels to move it to the van.

When to Hire Professionals

If you have a lot of equipment, are short on time, or don’t have all the necessary tools for disassembly, hire professional movers in Austin for an effortless and quick move. Moving companies in Austin, TX, like MASH Movers, are pros at moving gyms and know all the tricks for moving all kinds of exercise equipment.

Hiring a professional lowers the risk of injuries when moving bulky or unwieldy objects. Pro movers also have all the equipment needed to disassemble and reassemble all kinds of machines, all while keeping them safe during the move. 

Call MASH Movers for Full Service Moving in Austin, TX

MASH Movers is your local moving company in Austin that can get the job done right in no time. As locals, we love everything about our city, including helping our neighbors move in and out with no extra stress. Reach out today to learn more about us and get your free quote!

Moving Tips for Remote Workers: Home Office Setup & More

Everyone wants to work from home—until it's time to move residences. Then, you're working from home while packing up a house and moving offices at the same time. You have to decide which work equipment can go in boxes early and which needs to wait until the last minute.

And then there's the process of setting up your next workplace. You want to be up and running as quickly as possible, but you also want a home office setup that you'll look forward to working in, hopefully for years to come. It's an exciting and doable process, but it takes a bit of finesse. This guide will help you plan the home office part of your move so it goes as smoothly as possible.

More Than a Home: Packing Up Your Remote Office

If your work-from-home office setup is like most others’, it probably contains sensitive or proprietary materials and valuable equipment, some of which might belong to your company. Here's how to keep it safe without ruining your productivity:

• Back up your files. Accidents can happen during a move, and you don't want to lose anything essential. Back up everything to an external hard drive, then store the hard drive in a safe place. Plan to carry it with you when you move, just as you would a wallet or a checkbook.

• Mark your cables: Use tape or tags to mark each connector cable. If there's any doubt about which end goes with which device, or which port it connects to, mark that, too. Gently coil your cables and pack them in a waterproof box.

• Pack by priority: Create a comprehensive list of your equipment, from the most frequently used to the least. Pack the less critical items first and the most urgent items last, keeping them separate in their respective boxes.

• Protect fragile items: Pack your monitors, keyboards, printers, and other electronics with the same care as you'd pack your grandmother's good dishes. Wrap them in bubble wrap, and place them in boxes with cushioning. Ensure each piece lies flat, and clearly mark all sides of the box as 'fragile'.

• Label everything: It's probably not a good idea to arrive at your new place with a box simply labeled "office stuff." Label each box with its contents, being as detailed as possible. If you don't have enough room on the boxes, create a packing spreadsheet and number each box.

Communication is also part of the process. Share your office moving date with your team and any affected clients, and let them know that you may be offline around that time. If appropriate, let them know how to contact you in an emergency.

5 Home Office Setup Tips

For remote workers, moving isn't only about finding the best places to live. It also gives you a blank slate to create the best home office setup. 

1. Arrange Internet Connection

A few weeks before moving day, call your internet service provider to schedule a time for them to disconnect your current service and install service in your new home. If you can't make this happen before you start work in your new home office, call your employer's information technology (IT) department to discuss options. 

2. Design Your Layout

You'll be spending a significant portion of your days (or nights) in your home office, so make it comfortable and functional. Start by placing your desk near a window for optimal light, and make sure there's a power outlet nearby. Comfortable work-from-home setups don't usually have labyrinthine tangles of extension cords.

3. Adjust for Comfort

Once you have the basics ready, sit in your desk chair and imagine you're about to start work. What do you need to feel comfortable and productive? Perhaps you need additional storage bins, a more stylish supply organizer, or more lighting for the winter months.

4. Set Up Electronics

Minimize downtime by unpacking your computer, monitors, keyboards, and any other essential work equipment first. Try to complete this task as soon as possible, ideally the day before your first scheduled workday.

5. Test Everything

As soon as you have the important things out of the boxes, turn them all on and make sure you're connected. Then, you'll have time to troubleshoot before you have to hit the ground running at work.

Making the Most of Your Move: How the Pros Can Help

At Mash Movers, we handle residential moves across the Austin area—one of the best places to move for remote workers, if you ask us. Whether you're one of the many remote workers paid to move by your employer or you're funding the whole thing yourself, we can help you make it happen smoothly and economically. Contact us today for a free quote or to learn more.

Should You Tip Your Movers? How Much?

America is the land of tipping. We tip people for a job well done across all kinds of industries, so it makes sense that you'd also tip your movers.

With that in mind, you probably have a few common questions. How much do you tip movers in Texas? Do you tip movers a flat rate, or does the amount depend on different factors? Here is a handy guide to help you decide how much to tip your local movers in Austin, TX.

Tipping Movers in Austin, TX: How Much Should You Give?

Moving day is already stressful enough, so you don’t want to worry about trying to figure out how much to tip when the big day arrives. Having some information beforehand can help you decide how much to tip movers once they’ve finished the job. Understanding tipping etiquette can also help you safeguard your money and avoid being scammed.

What to Keep in Mind

One thing to consider is the job that you’re asking the movers to do. For example, if you’re only asking movers to move pre-packed items in boxes, the tip might be a bit lower. However, you should tip more for things like:

• Moving through tricky or narrow spots

• Packing

• Moving bulky or fragile items, especially if they have to be disassembled and reassembled

• The size of your home and the distance of the move

• Weather conditions that make the move more difficult

Most of all, your tip for movers depends on your overall satisfaction with the services they provide.

How Much Do You Tip Movers?

You should determine how much you plan to allocate to the budget for your move. There are different ways to tip, taking into account the factors listed above.

• A percentage. Generally, tipping etiquette for a good job suggests tipping movers between 15 and 20% of the overall moving cost.

• An hourly rate. If you like, you can set an hourly rate per mover. This can be anywhere from $4 to $15 per hour, depending on the workload.

• A daily rate. The same as above, except for the day, not the hour. This can range from $20 to $50 per mover per day.

You can also tip less for smaller jobs or for moving single items.

Is Tipping Always Expected?

Do you always tip movers, regardless of the circumstances? Generally speaking, yes, it is customary to tip movers in Austin, TX. You are trusting them with your belongings, and they do their best to make sure that everything arrives on time and in good condition. There’s a lot of heavy lifting and hard work that goes into moving things, so moving crews usually expect some kind of tip for their efforts.

Do you tip movers and packers? Definitely! If you’re asking your moving crew to pack items in addition to moving them, you should not only tip, but tip more than you would if they were just moving your items. Packing stretches the job out longer and requires more time, effort, and planning, so you should adjust your tip accordingly. How much to tip packers relies on many of the same factors.

Why Is Tipping Important?

Tipping is important because it shows appreciation for the effort that your moving crew put in. Like many other service workers, movers in Austin, TX count on tips as a part of their wage, so it’s important to tip unless you’re deeply unsatisfied with the service they provided. 

You can tip in cash, by card, or by writing a check once the move is complete. If you're unsure whether the movers you've hired have a preference, go ahead and ask. Knowing that you respect their hard work will help the mood as everyone works to get you re-settled.

MASH Movers: Your Local Moving Team in Austin

If you’re looking for a moving team in Austin that can get the job done right with a smile, MASH Movers is the team for you. We’re a group of local musicians who help people move in and out of Austin when we’re not jamming. We love our city as much as we love welcoming new neighbors to it.

If you'd like to learn more about us or discover what we can do for you, please don't hesitate to contact us. We'll be happy to provide a complimentary quote. We look forward to hearing from you!