When staying at a hotel, you may have seen or used a luggage cart to transport your bags from the lobby to your room.
But have you ever wondered what these carts and the people who operate them are called?
Hotel baggage carriers typically go by the names “bellhop” or “bellboy”. These colloquial terms originated in the late 1800s and refer to the hotel staff members whose main role is providing luggage assistance for guests.
The formal term for a hotel baggage carrier is often “bellman“. This professional designation for a bellhop is used by some hotels instead of “bellhop“, which can sound dated. Though “bellhop” remains the most widely used and recognized term.
The carts used by bellhops and bellmen to transport luggage are known as “luggage carts” or “bellman’s carts”. These carts allow them to seamlessly move multiple suitcases and bags in one trip.
Other less common names for hotel baggage carriers include “porter“, “bag porter“, or “doorperson“. In some cases, the doorman may also handle bags. But the primary hotel staff dedicated to luggage are bellhops and bellmen using luggage carts to provide bag delivery and pick-up services for hotel guests.
In this article, we’ll answer this question and provide some additional information about hotel baggage carriers.
What Are Hotel Baggage Carriers Called?
Hotel baggage carriers are an essential part of the hospitality industry. These professionals are responsible for ensuring that guests’ luggage is transported from the lobby to their rooms and vice versa. However, you may be wondering what these individuals are called. There are several names that refer to this occupation, including:
- Luggage Porter: This term is commonly used in the United Kingdom and refers to an individual who carries guests’ luggage in a hotel.
- Bellhop: In the United States, Canada, and Australia, a hotel baggage carrier is often referred to as a bellhop. This term originated from the fact that these individuals would ring a bell to summon an elevator or alert guests to their presence.
- Bellman: This term is interchangeable with bellhop and is also commonly used in the United States.
- Baggage Handler: This term is commonly used in the airline industry, but it can also refer to individuals responsible for transporting luggage in a hotel.
It is worth mentioning that the term used to refer to hotel baggage carriers may vary depending on the region and country. However, all of these terms refer to professionals who assist guests with their luggage and ensure a smooth and comfortable stay.
Luggage Porter
Hotel baggage carriers are commonly known as luggage porters. Luggage porters are responsible for handling, transporting, and delivering guests’ luggage to their rooms quickly and efficiently.
Job Description
The primary job of a luggage porter is to ensure that guests’ luggage is transported from the lobby to their rooms and vice versa. They must be able to handle heavy luggage, ensure that all luggage items are accounted for, and efficiently transport them to the correct room. In addition to this, they may also be responsible for providing guests with information about the hotel’s amenities and services, arranging transportation, and providing assistance with other guest requests.
Training and Qualifications
There are no specific educational requirements for becoming a luggage porter. However, excellent customer service skills, physical fitness, and the ability to lift heavy objects are essential. Luggage porters usually receive on-the-job training, which includes instruction on how to handle delicate items, how to use luggage carts and elevators, and how to provide excellent customer service.
Duties and Responsibilities
Luggage porters have many duties and responsibilities that include:
- Assisting guests with their luggage upon arrival and departure
- Transporting luggage to and from guest rooms
- Ensuring that the luggage is stored safely and securely
- Providing information on hotel amenities and services
- Arranging transportation for guests
- Assisting with other guest requests as needed
It is worth mentioning that some hotel chains may have different titles for luggage porters, such as bellhops or baggage handlers. However, the duties and responsibilities remain the same.
Remember that luggage porters play an essential role in providing guests with an excellent experience during their stay. Unfortunately, their hard work often goes unnoticed. However, guests should acknowledge their efforts by tipping them accordingly.
Bellhop
When it comes to hotels, guests often have luggage that needs to be transported from the car to their room. This is where the bellhop comes in – a hotel staff member responsible for assisting guests with their luggage.
Job Description
A bellhop, also known as a baggage porter or hotel porter, is responsible for handling and transporting the luggage of hotel guests. They greet guests upon arrival, assist with luggage, provide information about hotel amenities and services, and escort guests to their rooms. Bellhops may also be responsible for arranging transportation, such as taxis or rental cars, for guests.
Training and Qualifications
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required to become a bellhop. On-the-job training is provided, and it may include learning to use luggage carts, elevators, and other equipment used to transport luggage. Good communication and customer service skills are also essential.
Duties and Responsibilities
Bellhops are responsible for a variety of tasks, including:
- Greeting guests upon arrival and offering assistance with luggage
- Escorting guests to their rooms and providing information about hotel amenities
- Arranging transportation, such as taxis or rental cars
- Storing and retrieving luggage for guests
- Assisting with room service and other guest requests
It is worth mentioning that some hotels may have specific uniform requirements for bellhops to maintain a professional appearance and to make them easily identifiable to guests.
Bellhops play an important role in ensuring a positive guest experience. Keep in mind that tipping is often expected for this service, with the amount varying depending on the level of service provided. Unfortunately, not all guests are aware of this, so it is important for hotels to make sure that guests are informed of tipping etiquette.
On the other hand, some hotels may have automated luggage transport systems instead of bellhops. This is more common in larger hotels or resorts where a high volume of guests require luggage transport. However, for many guests, the personal touch of having a bellhop assist with their luggage is still preferred.
Remember, the role of a bellhop may vary depending on the hotel and location. It is always best to check with the hotel for specific details about their bellhop services.
Bellman
When you check into a hotel, the individual who takes your bags to your room is called a bellman. A bellman is a member of the hotel staff who is responsible for transporting guests’ luggage to and from their rooms, as well as providing other helpful services to guests.
Job Description
The primary responsibility of a bellman is to assist guests with their luggage. This includes unloading luggage from a guest’s vehicle, transporting it to the guest’s room, and then retrieving it when the guest checks out. In addition to handling luggage, bellmen may also provide guests with information about the hotel and local area, help guests with transportation arrangements, and perform other duties as needed to ensure a pleasant stay for guests.
Training and Qualifications
Bellmen are typically required to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some hotels may prefer candidates with previous experience in the hospitality industry. Bellmen typically receive on-the-job training, which may include instruction on how to safely handle and transport luggage, how to provide excellent customer service, and how to use hotel technology systems.
Duties and Responsibilities
Aside from handling guests’ luggage, bellmen may be responsible for a variety of other duties, including:
- Greeting guests and opening doors
- Providing guests with information about the hotel and local area
- Assisting guests with transportation arrangements
- Delivering packages and other items to guests’ rooms
- Assisting with valet parking
- Maintaining the cleanliness of public areas in the hotel
It is worth mentioning that bellmen may work long hours and may be required to work weekends and holidays. However, many bellmen find the work to be rewarding due to the opportunity to interact with guests and provide excellent customer service.
Baggage Handler
Hotel baggage carriers are commonly known as baggage handlers or porters. They are responsible for assisting guests with their luggage, from the moment they arrive at the hotel until they depart.
Job Description
Baggage handlers are expected to be physically fit, as they will be required to lift heavy bags and move them around the hotel. They should also have excellent customer service skills, as they will be interacting with guests throughout the day. In addition, they must have good organizational skills to keep track of multiple bags and ensure that they are delivered to the correct rooms.
Training and Qualifications
There are no specific qualifications required to become a baggage handler, but most hotels will prefer candidates who have some previous experience in the hospitality industry. Training is typically provided on the job, with experienced handlers showing new hires the ropes. Some hotels may also require handlers to complete a brief training course to ensure that they are familiar with the hotel’s policies and procedures.
Duties and Responsibilities
The primary responsibility of baggage handlers is to assist guests with their luggage. This may involve carrying bags from the car to the front desk, transporting bags to the guest’s room, or retrieving bags from the room when the guest is ready to check out. In addition, baggage handlers may be asked to assist with other tasks, such as hailing cabs for guests, providing directions to local attractions, or delivering room service orders.
It is worth mentioning that baggage handlers are often the first point of contact for guests when they arrive at the hotel, so it is important that they make a good impression. They should be friendly, polite, and professional at all times. Keep in mind that baggage handlers may be working in all kinds of weather conditions, so they should be prepared to work outside in rain, snow, or extreme heat.
On the other hand, unfortunately, some guests may have unreasonable expectations or be difficult to deal with. In these situations, baggage handlers should remain calm and professional, and do their best to resolve any issues that arise.
Other Names for Hotel Baggage Carriers
Hotel baggage carriers are essential for providing guests with excellent customer service and making their stay comfortable. They are responsible for transporting guests’ luggage to and from their rooms, as well as providing them with information about the hotel’s amenities. However, they are not only known as hotel baggage carriers, but also have other names:
- Porter: This is the most common name used for hotel baggage carriers. A porter is a person who is employed to carry luggage for guests in a hotel or other establishment.
- Concierge: A concierge is a hotel employee who assists guests with various needs, including making reservations, arranging transportation, and providing information about local attractions. They may also assist with luggage handling, especially in high-end hotels.
- Doorman: A doorman is the person who greets guests as they enter the hotel and assists them with their luggage. They are also responsible for opening doors, hailing taxis, and providing directions.
- Valet: A valet is a hotel employee who is responsible for parking and retrieving guests’ cars. They may also assist with luggage handling, especially in hotels that offer valet parking services.
It is worth mentioning that these terms may vary depending on the country or region. For example, in the United Kingdom, hotel baggage carriers are commonly referred to as “bellhops.”
On the other hand, some hotels may have different job titles and responsibilities for their luggage handlers. For instance, some hotels may have a separate team of employees who are responsible for delivering luggage to guests’ rooms, while others may combine this task with the duties of a porter.
When it comes to tipping hotel baggage carriers, it is recommended to tip around $1 to $2 per bag, depending on the level of service provided. However, keep in mind that some hotels may have a policy of not allowing their employees to accept tips, so it is important to check with the hotel beforehand.
It is unfortunate that some guests may not recognize the hard work and dedication that hotel baggage carriers put into their jobs. Therefore, it is important to show appreciation for their services, as they play a vital role in making guests’ stay enjoyable and memorable.
Conclusion
It is worth mentioning that tipping the hotel baggage carrier is customary in many countries, and guests should keep this in mind when budgeting for their trip. The amount of the tip varies depending on the country and the hotel policy, but it is generally recommended to tip between $1-$2 per bag.
Unfortunately, hotel baggage carriers may face challenges such as heavy lifting, long hours, and dealing with demanding guests. However, with proper training and support from the hotel management, these challenges can be minimized.
Remember, choosing a hotel with excellent customer service, including helpful and friendly baggage carriers, can enhance the overall guest experience. On the other hand, poor service can leave a lasting negative impression.
