If you’re wondering, “should I give refreshments to the movers?”, you’re not alone. Many people who hire a moving company for the first time tend to be worried about what to prepare.
In this article, we’ll explain whether offering refreshments to the movers is necessary, what kind of items are appropriate, and when to give them. Make sure to keep in mind some important key points when offering refreshments before the moving day arrives.
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Offering refreshments to movers is not mandatory
In the past, it was common to offer refreshments as a gesture of appreciation to the movers. However, this custom has gradually faded, and today, giving refreshments is entirely optional and not considered mandatory.
In fact, some moving companies even state on their official websites that “refreshments are not required.” Thus, even if you don’t offer anything, it won’t offend the movers or affect the quality of service you receive.
That being said, during the hot summer period when movers are working hard in the heat and carefully handling your belongings, some people choose to offer a small token of appreciation, something considerate that won’t burden the movers.
Recommended refreshments to offer to the movers
Cold drinks
During a move, it is not uncommon for the movers to sweat profusely because of a lot of heavy lifting and physical effort. Therefore, drinks that can help people stay hydrated are considered to be a great choice for refreshments.
However, it is recommended to choose drinks with secure caps so that they do not spill or get in the way after opening. Good options include cold tea, mineral water, sports drinks, and energy drinks.
Snacks
Snacks are a great way to help the movers recharge their energy with a quick sugar boost during a physically demanding job. Choose individually wrapped snacks so that they can easily share them among themselves.
It’s also a good idea to prepare several snack options. For example, consider offering both sweet and savory snacks, or choose an assorted pack with multiple flavors for everyone to enjoy.
However, during the summer period, avoid snacks that melt easily, such as chocolate and candies. Moreover, perishable foods such as fruits are not suitable as snacks, as they may leak juice and require the skin to be peeled before eating.
Tipping
If you don’t have time to prepare refreshments or are unsure what to give, tipping is another thoughtful way to show appreciation.
To tip, prepare the cash in advance by placing it into individual envelopes according to the number of people so that it’s easy to distribute. Adding a note on the envelope with phrases like “Thank you for your hard work” helps express your gratitude in a thoughtful and respectful manner.
The amount can be entirely up to you, just give what feels comfortable and within your budget. A good rule of thumb would be ¥1,000 per person. Alternatively, prepaid gift cards or shopping vouchers like QUO cards are also well-appreciated.
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When to give refreshments to the movers
Depending on the timing, giving refreshments can sometimes disrupt their workflow and cause inconvenience.
The best timing to hand out drinks or snacks is after all items have been loaded onto the truck. This way, the movers can rehydrate and replenish their energy while traveling to the new location, without disrupting the moving process. If you miss the opportunity after loading, you can give them the refreshments after the unloading.
On the other hand, it is ideal to tip during your initial greeting before they start working. If you give it to them at the beginning, it will naturally make the communication between you and the movers easier and will also give them a morale boost.
However, to avoid any trouble later, it’s best to hand over the tips directly to the team leader, making sure there’s enough for everyone. Keep in mind that some companies have policies against accepting cash, so it’s a good idea to prepare drinks or snacks just in case the money is declined.
Things to keep in mind when offering refreshments to the movers
Don’t expect anything in return
The cost of the moving service is already covered by the fee you’ve paid. Refreshments and tips are simply meant to show gratitude, so don’t expect anything in return, such as “Please work more carefully” or “Please finish faster.” Don’t burden them with the feeling of “I gave you a gift, so…” Instead, offer them the refreshments purely as sincere appreciation for their hard work.
Avoid making the movers feel uncomfortable
Not everyone is necessarily happy to receive refreshments. For example, some people may feel uncomfortable with homemade rice balls or drinks served in cups that have been touched by others. Take hygiene and personal preferences into consideration, and choose items that are easy for everyone to accept with peace of mind, such as individually packaged snacks or commercially available bottled drinks.
Don’t disrupt their workflow
Avoid offering refreshments while saying, “Please take a break” or “Let’s have some tea.” Movers work on a tight schedule to complete the work within a set timeframe. In some cases, they may have another job waiting right after.
When offering refreshments, try to offer them during natural breaks, such as in between tasks or during short rest periods, so you don’t interrupt the movers while they’re working.
What matters the most is gratitude
When giving refreshments to the movers, it is more important to convey your sincere gratitude rather than what you actually give to them. Offering refreshments to the movers is simply a way to show your appreciation, so there’s absolutely no need to feel pressured to prepare anything.
It’s the thoughtfulness for the movers that truly matters. Even just offering a warm smile and saying “thank you” can help lighten the atmosphere on-site and make the moving process go more smoothly for everyone involved.
At Village House, there are no security deposits, key money, handling fees, or renewal fees （※）. If you’re looking to save on initial costs, feel free to contact us by email or phone!
※ Depending on the contract details and screening results, a security deposit may be required.
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Hello, I’m Machiko Doi, a freelance writer who writes about housing and living in Japan.
I live in an 80-year-old house that I inherited from my grandparents along with my two shelter cats and daughter.
We live a relaxed life while repairing the house.
I like to cook vegetables from the garden and fresh fish caught by my father, and enjoy them with cold beer on a hot day or hot sake on a cold day.