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Quick answer: there is no single licence for moving companies in Kenya, but a legitimate mover should be a registered business with a KRA PIN, hold a county business permit, run commercial vehicles that are properly registered, insured and inspected, and carry insurance such as Goods in Transit cover. For international moves, customs clearance is handled through KRA and licensed clearing agents. Before you hire, ask to see proof of registration and insurance, and get the agreement in writing.
This guide explains what applies to movers in Kenya and what to check as a customer. It is general information, not legal advice; rules and fees change, so confirm details with the relevant authority.
What a legitimate moving company in Kenya should have
| Requirement | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Business registration | The company is registered with the Business Registration Service, so it is a real, accountable business |
| KRA PIN and tax compliance | It can issue proper invoices and receipts |
| County business permit | It is licensed to operate by the county, such as Nairobi City County |
| Registered and insured commercial vehicles | Trucks are legally on the road, with commercial motor insurance |
| Vehicle inspection | Commercial vehicles are inspected as required by NTSA |
| Goods in Transit insurance | Your belongings are covered against loss or damage on the road, subject to the policy terms |
| Public liability and staff cover | Covers accidents to people and property during the move |
Insurance: the most important check
Ask every mover what insurance they carry and what it actually covers. Goods in Transit insurance usually covers loss or damage while your goods are on the truck; some policies exclude items you packed yourself, cash, jewellery or electronics. Ask for the limit per move, the excess, and how to make a claim. For valuable items, ask about extra cover or your own home insurance.
Your rights as a customer
- A clear written agreement. The quote or contract should list the services, price, date, what is included and what is not.
- Fair information. Under the Consumer Protection Act, businesses must not mislead you about prices or services.
- Your personal data. Under the Data Protection Act, the mover must handle your personal information, addresses and inventories properly.
- A record of your goods. Ask for an inventory, especially for long-distance and international moves, and check it on delivery.
- A way to complain. Report damage in writing as soon as you find it, with photos, and keep copies of all documents.
Rules for international and cross-border moves
Household goods leaving or entering Kenya go through customs. Shipments are declared to KRA, usually through a licensed customs clearing agent, with an inventory and your identity and residence documents. Some items, such as vehicles, firearms, certain foods, plants and medicines, are restricted or need permits. Cross-border road moves within East Africa also clear customs at the border. A reputable international mover will prepare the paperwork and explain any duties in advance.
Building and estate rules on moving day
- Many apartment blocks and gated estates set moving hours and require notice or a gate pass.
- Some buildings require a deposit or a booked service lift.
- Parking and loading on busy streets may be restricted, so plan where the truck will stop.
- Get written clearance from your landlord, as many buildings will not let goods out without it.
Red flags when hiring movers
- No physical office, registered business name or KRA PIN
- A price given over the phone without seeing your goods
- No written quote or agreement
- A large cash deposit demanded upfront
- No insurance, or vague answers about what it covers
- Unmarked trucks and casual labourers hired on the day
Our guide on how to choose movers in Nairobi explains the full checklist, and the moving cost guide shows what a fair price looks like.
Frequently asked questions
There is no single moving licence, but a mover should be a registered business with a KRA PIN, hold a county business permit and run properly registered, insured and inspected commercial vehicles.
At minimum Goods in Transit insurance for your belongings, commercial motor insurance for its trucks and public liability cover. Ask what each policy covers and how claims work.
Ask for its business registration, KRA PIN, county permit and insurance details, check recent Google reviews and visit its office if you can.
Customs is handled with KRA, usually through a licensed clearing agent. Your international mover should coordinate it and give you the documents list in advance.
Move with a registered, insured mover
Nairobi Celestial Movers Limited is a registered Kenyan company based at TRM Drive, Roysambu. Ask us for our documents and insurance details when you book your house moving or office moving. Call 0724 225 178 or WhatsApp us.
