Are You Supposed to Tip Furniture Delivery People, or Is It Just a Myth Like the Loch Ness Monster?

Are You Supposed to Tip Furniture Delivery People, or Is It Just a Myth Like the Loch Ness Monster?

When it comes to the age-old question of whether you should tip furniture delivery people, opinions are as varied as the types of couches they deliver. Some people swear by tipping, while others believe it’s unnecessary. But let’s dive deeper into this topic, exploring the nuances, cultural expectations, and even the psychological impact of tipping—or not tipping—those who bring your new sofa into your living room.

The Case for Tipping: Why It Matters

1. Physical Labor and Effort

Furniture delivery is no walk in the park. Delivery people often have to navigate narrow staircases, awkward corners, and heavy items. Tipping is a way to acknowledge the physical effort and skill required to get your new dining table safely into your home without scratching the walls or breaking a sweat (yours, not theirs).

2. Customer Service

Delivery people often go above and beyond to ensure your satisfaction. They might assemble your furniture, remove old items, or even offer advice on where to place your new piece. A tip can be a way to say “thank you” for their excellent service.

3. Industry Standards

In many service industries, tipping is expected. While it might not be as formalized as in restaurants, tipping furniture delivery people is becoming more common. It’s a way to show appreciation for a job well done, especially if the delivery was particularly challenging.

4. Economic Realities

Many delivery people rely on tips to supplement their income. While some companies pay their employees well, others do not. Tipping can help bridge the gap and ensure that these workers are fairly compensated for their hard work.

The Case Against Tipping: Why It Might Not Be Necessary

1. Included in the Price

Some argue that the cost of delivery is already included in the price of the furniture. If you’ve paid a delivery fee, you might feel that tipping is unnecessary. After all, the delivery fee is supposed to cover the cost of getting your furniture to your home.

2. Company Policies

Some furniture companies have policies that prohibit their employees from accepting tips. In these cases, tipping might not only be unnecessary but could also put the delivery person in an awkward position.

3. Cultural Differences

Tipping customs vary widely around the world. In some countries, tipping is not expected and might even be considered rude. If you’re in a country where tipping is not the norm, you might feel that it’s unnecessary to tip your furniture delivery people.

4. Personal Budget Constraints

Not everyone can afford to tip, especially if they’ve just made a large purchase like a new piece of furniture. If you’re on a tight budget, you might feel that tipping is an unnecessary expense.

The Gray Area: When Tipping Is Optional

1. Exceptional Service

If the delivery person goes above and beyond—perhaps by assembling your furniture, removing old items, or dealing with a particularly difficult delivery—tipping might be a nice gesture. It’s a way to show your appreciation for their extra effort.

2. Holiday Season

During the holiday season, when delivery people are often working long hours and dealing with increased demand, a tip can be a way to show your gratitude for their hard work during a busy time.

3. Local Customs

In some areas, tipping furniture delivery people is more common than in others. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to ask around or check local customs to see what’s expected.

How Much Should You Tip?

If you decide to tip, the next question is how much. While there’s no hard and fast rule, here are some general guidelines:

  • $5-$10 per person: This is a common range for a standard delivery.
  • $20 or more: If the delivery was particularly challenging or if the delivery person provided exceptional service, you might consider tipping more.
  • Percentage of the total cost: Some people prefer to tip a percentage of the total cost of the furniture, similar to how you might tip in a restaurant. A common range is 5-10%.

The Psychological Impact of Tipping

Tipping isn’t just about money; it’s also about the psychological impact it has on both the giver and the receiver. For the delivery person, a tip can be a morale booster, a sign that their hard work is appreciated. For the customer, tipping can create a sense of satisfaction, knowing that they’ve done something kind for someone else.

On the flip side, not tipping can lead to feelings of guilt or awkwardness, especially if you feel that the delivery person went above and beyond. It’s important to weigh these psychological factors when deciding whether or not to tip.

Conclusion: To Tip or Not to Tip?

Ultimately, the decision to tip furniture delivery people is a personal one. There’s no right or wrong answer, and it often comes down to your own beliefs, budget, and the level of service you received. Whether you choose to tip or not, the most important thing is to treat your delivery people with respect and kindness. After all, they’re the ones who make sure your new furniture arrives safely and in one piece.


Q: Is it rude not to tip furniture delivery people? A: It depends on the situation. If the delivery was straightforward and the service was average, not tipping might not be considered rude. However, if the delivery person went above and beyond, not tipping could be seen as ungrateful.

Q: Can I tip with something other than cash? A: Yes! While cash is the most common form of tip, you can also offer a gift card, a cold drink, or even a homemade treat. The gesture is what counts.

Q: What if I can’t afford to tip? A: If you’re on a tight budget, don’t feel obligated to tip. A simple “thank you” and a smile can go a long way in showing your appreciation.

Q: Should I tip if the delivery was late? A: If the delay was due to circumstances beyond the delivery person’s control (like traffic or weather), it’s still considerate to tip. However, if the delay was due to poor service, you might reconsider.

Q: Do I need to tip if I’m not home during the delivery? A: If you’ve arranged for someone else to be home or if the delivery person leaves the furniture in a safe place, tipping might not be necessary. However, if they’ve gone out of their way to accommodate your absence, a tip could be a nice gesture.

Q: Is it okay to ask the delivery person if they accept tips? A: Absolutely! If you’re unsure, it’s always polite to ask. Most delivery people will appreciate your consideration.