
Should I Tip Furniture Delivery? A Helpful Guide
If you’ve just ordered new furniture, you might be asking yourself, “Should I tip furniture delivery?” While tipping isn’t always required, it’s a kind gesture that shows appreciation for the hard work of delivery teams. This guide covers when to tip, how much is fair, and alternatives if you can’t tip in cash.
Is Tipping Furniture Delivery Drivers Expected?
Unlike restaurant servers, furniture delivery drivers don’t rely solely on tips, but gratuities are still appreciated. Consider tipping when:
✔ The service is exceptional (careful handling, friendly attitude)
✔ The delivery is difficult (heavy items, stairs, bad weather)
✔ Extra services are provided (assembly, removing old furniture)
If the delivery was fast and straightforward, a smaller tip (or none at all) may be fine.
How Much Should You Tip?
A general rule for “should I tip furniture delivery” is:
- Standard delivery (small items, no stairs): 5–5–10 per person
- Large/heavy items (sofas, mattresses): 10–10–20 per person
- Challenging delivery (long carry, multiple flights of stairs): $20+ per person
For exceptional service, consider tipping more.
When Is Tipping Not Necessary?
You may skip tipping if:
- The delivery fee already includes a service charge
- The team was unprofessional or damaged your furniture
- The company has a strict no-tipping policy (rare, but check if unsure)
Other Ways to Show Appreciation
If you can’t tip in cash, try:
✅ Offering cold drinks or snacks
✅ Writing a positive review mentioning the delivery team
✅ Simply thanking them for their effort
Final Answer: Should You Tip?
Yes, tipping is a nice gesture if the service was good. While not mandatory, it encourages great service and makes the delivery process smoother for everyone.
Suggested Tipping Range: 5–5–20 per person, depending on difficulty and service quality.