Storage Units In Nairobi
Looking for storage units in Nairobi? Whether you’re moving house, renovating, downsizing, or need somewhere to keep business inventory, finding the right storage facility can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re comparing prices, security, and locations across the city.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about storage units in Nairobi: what to look for, how much it costs, where the best facilities are located, and how to choose the right unit size for your needs.
Why People Use Storage Units in Nairobi
Before we get into the details, here’s why storage is one of the fastest-growing services in Nairobi right now:
1. Moving Between Homes
Your new house isn’t ready yet, but you need to vacate your current one. Short-term storage (2-8 weeks) gives you breathing room between moves.
2. Renovations and Construction
Furniture, appliances and personal belongings need to be kept safe and dust-free while contractors work on your home. Most renovations in Nairobi take 1-3 months, making storage essential.
3. Downsizing or Decluttering
Moving from a 3-bedroom to a 2-bedroom? Storage lets you keep items you’re not ready to sell or give away without cramming everything into a smaller space.
4. Seasonal Business Inventory
Retailers and e-commerce businesses storing stock, promotional materials, or seasonal products (like Christmas decorations, back-to-school supplies) use storage to manage inventory without paying for expensive retail space.
5. Office Equipment During Relocation
Companies moving offices often need 2-4 weeks of storage for desks, chairs, IT equipment and files while the new premises are being set up.
6. Long-Term Travel or Relocation
Professionals moving abroad temporarily (6 months to 2 years) store furniture and personal belongings rather than selling everything.
7. Vehicle and Equipment Storage
Businesses storing delivery vehicles, construction equipment, or machinery when not in active use.
What to Look for in a Storage Facility in Nairobi
Security, location and price matter — but here’s what actually separates good storage from risky storage:
1. 24/7 CCTV Monitoring
Ask if the facility has live camera feeds monitored around the clock. Some facilities only record footage (which helps after a theft, but doesn’t prevent it). You want real-time monitoring.
2. Climate-Appropriate Units
Nairobi’s weather isn’t extreme, but you still need:
- Pest-free units (no rats, insects, or termites)
- Weather-protected (roofs that don’t leak during rainy season)
- Dry, ventilated storage (prevents mold on fabric, wood, or paper items)
Full climate control (air conditioning) is rare in Nairobi and usually unnecessary unless you’re storing temperature-sensitive items like pharmaceuticals or electronics for export.
3. Flexible Contracts
Avoid facilities that lock you into 6-12 month contracts if you only need 2 months. Look for:
- Short-term options (weekly or monthly)
- No penalties for early collection
- Clear pricing with no hidden “admin fees”
4. Easy Access
Can you access your items when you need them? Some facilities require 24-hour notice. Others let you visit during business hours. Clarify this upfront, especially if you’re storing business inventory you might need quickly.
5. Insurance Options
Check if the facility offers insurance or if your items are covered under their liability. Most Nairobi storage facilities recommend you arrange your own insurance for high-value items.
6. Collection and Delivery
The best storage companies in Nairobi collect your items from your home or office and deliver them back when you’re ready. This saves you hiring a truck and doing the heavy lifting yourself.
How Much Do Storage Units Cost in Nairobi?
Pricing depends on what you’re storing, how long, and how much space you need.
Here’s a realistic breakdown based on common scenarios:
Storage by Item Type
Single Items (Furniture, Appliances):
- 1 sofa set → KES 1,500 – 2,500/month
- 1 fridge or washing machine → KES 1,000 – 1,800/month
- 1 king-size bed (disassembled) → KES 1,200 – 2,000/month
Small Storage (1-Bedroom Apartment Contents):
- Furniture, appliances, boxes → KES 4,000 – 6,500/month
Medium Storage (2-3 Bedroom House Contents):
- Full household goods → KES 8,000 – 12,000/month
Large Storage (Office or 4+ Bedroom House):
- Office furniture, equipment, or large home → KES 15,000 – 25,000/month
Business/Commercial Storage:
- Inventory, stock, equipment → KES 10,000 – 40,000/month depending on volume
What Affects the Price?
Duration:
Short-term (under 1 month) often costs slightly more per month. Long-term contracts (3-6 months) usually get discounted rates.
Location:
Storage facilities closer to Nairobi CBD (like Kilimani, Parklands) cost more than facilities in Ruai, Mlolongo, or Athi River — but you save on fuel if you need regular access.
Item Type:
Fragile items, high-value goods, or things requiring special handling (like artwork, antiques, IT servers) may cost more due to insurance and careful storage requirements.
Collection & Delivery:
Some facilities include collection in the price. Others charge separately (typically KES 2,000 – 5,000 depending on distance and volume).
Storage Unit Sizes: How to Know What You Need
Most people overestimate or underestimate the space they need. Here’s a quick guide:
Small Unit (5×5 feet or 10×5 feet):
- Good for: Single room contents, seasonal items, business documents, small inventory
- Example: 5-10 boxes, 1 wardrobe, a few chairs
Medium Unit (10×10 feet):
- Good for: 1-2 bedroom apartment, small office
- Example: Sofa set, dining table, bed, wardrobe, 15-20 boxes
Large Unit (10×15 feet or 10×20 feet):
- Good for: 3-4 bedroom house, medium office
- Example: Multiple furniture sets, appliances, 30-50 boxes
Extra Large / Warehouse Space:
- Good for: Business inventory, vehicle storage, bulk commercial goods
- Custom pricing based on volume
Pro tip: The storage company should do a free assessment before quoting. Avoid companies that give you a price over the phone without seeing what you’re storing — you’ll either overpay or discover on moving day that your items don’t fit.
Where to Find Storage Units in Nairobi
Storage facilities are spread across Nairobi, but here are the main clusters:
CBD & Westlands Area
Pros: Close to offices and apartments, easy access
Cons: Higher cost, limited space for large items
Best for: Business documents, small office equipment, short-term personal storage
Industrial Area & Syokimau
Pros: Large warehouse spaces, good for commercial storage
Cons: Further from residential areas
Best for: Business inventory, bulk goods, vehicle storage
Ruai, Mlolongo & Eastern Bypass
Pros: Affordable rates, large secure facilities, accessible from most Nairobi estates
Cons: 30-40 min drive from CBD
Best for: Household furniture, long-term storage, moving storage
Example: Nairobi Movers operates a secure storage facility in Ruai with 24/7 CCTV monitoring, serving clients from Kilimani, Westlands, Karen, Kasarani, Embakasi and across greater Nairobi. Collection and delivery included.
Storage Units vs Self-Storage: What’s the Difference?
Self-Storage (Common in the US/UK, rare in Nairobi):
You rent a unit, pack and move your own items, and access it yourself with a key or code. You’re responsible for transport.
Full-Service Storage (Standard in Nairobi):
The storage company collects your items, stores them in their facility, and delivers them back when you’re ready. You don’t handle the logistics.
Most storage services in Nairobi are full-service, which is actually more convenient — you don’t need to rent a truck or do the heavy lifting.
How Long Can You Store Items?
Short-Term Storage (Days to 3 Months):
Common for:
- Moving between homes
- Renovations
- Temporary office relocations
Long-Term Storage (3-12+ Months):
Common for:
- Professionals working abroad
- Seasonal business inventory
- Items you’re keeping but don’t currently need
Most facilities in Nairobi offer both, with discounts for longer contracts.
FAQs About Storage Units in Nairobi
Can I store a car or motorbike?
Yes, many facilities offer vehicle storage. Expect to pay KES 8,000 – 15,000/month for a car, KES 3,000 – 5,000/month for a motorbike, depending on the facility and security level.
Are my items insured while in storage?
Most storage companies in Nairobi handle items with care but recommend you arrange your own insurance for high-value belongings. Some offer optional insurance cover — ask when booking.
Can I access my items anytime?
It depends on the facility. Some allow access during business hours (8am-5pm weekdays). Others require 24-hour notice. Clarify this before storing, especially if you’re storing business inventory you might need quickly.
What items can’t be stored?
Most facilities won’t accept:
- Perishable food
- Hazardous materials (chemicals, fuel, explosives)
- Illegal items
- Live plants or animals
Confirm with your storage provider if you’re storing anything unusual (like artwork, antiques, or business equipment).
Do I need to pack items myself?
Not always. Full-service storage companies in Nairobi often provide packing materials (boxes, bubble wrap, stretch film) and pack fragile items for you. Ask if this is included or charged separately.
How do I know my items are safe?
Look for:
- 24/7 CCTV monitoring
- Secure perimeter fencing
- On-site security staff
- Proper insurance or liability coverage
- Transparent contracts
Reputable companies will let you visit the facility before booking.
What’s the minimum storage period?
Most Nairobi storage facilities accept short-term storage from 1 week upwards. Some require a minimum of 1 month. Always confirm before committing.
Tips for Storing Items Safely
1. Label Everything
Mark boxes clearly with contents and room. This makes retrieval faster if you only need specific items later.
2. Disassemble Large Furniture
Beds, wardrobes, and dining tables take less space and are safer to store when disassembled. Keep screws and fittings in labeled bags taped to the furniture.
3. Wrap Fragile Items Properly
Use bubble wrap for electronics, mirrors, glassware and artwork. Don’t rely on newspaper alone — it doesn’t provide enough cushioning.
4. Store Electronics in Sealed Boxes
Keep TVs, laptops, and appliances in sealed plastic boxes to prevent dust and moisture damage.
5. Create an Inventory List
Write down everything you’re storing. This helps you track items and is useful for insurance claims if needed.
6. Keep Essentials Accessible
If you’re storing during a move and might need certain items before everything is delivered, tell the storage company which boxes should be easily accessible.
How to Choose the Right Storage Company in Nairobi
When comparing storage providers, ask:
1. How long have you been operating?
Established companies (5+ years) are more reliable than new, untested facilities.
2. Can I visit the facility before booking?
If they refuse or make excuses, that’s a red flag.
3. What’s included in the price?
Clarify if collection, delivery, packing materials, and insurance are included or charged separately.
4. How is security managed?
Ask specifically about CCTV, on-site guards, access control, and what happens if items are damaged or stolen.
5. What are the contract terms?
Understand the notice period for collection, penalties for early withdrawal, and whether prices can change mid-contract.
6. Do you have references or reviews?
Check Google reviews or ask for contact details of previous clients.
Storage Units in Nairobi: Final Thoughts
Storage is one of those services you don’t think about until you urgently need it — and by then, you’re comparing options under time pressure.
The key is finding a facility that’s:
- Secure (24/7 monitoring, proper access control)
- Flexible (short-term or long-term, easy access)
- Transparent (clear pricing, no hidden fees)
- Convenient (collection and delivery, accessible location)
Whether you’re storing a sofa set for 2 weeks during a move, or a full office worth of equipment for 6 months, the right storage company makes the process simple, safe, and stress-free.
Need secure storage in Nairobi?
Nairobi Movers offers 24/7 CCTV-monitored storage at our Ruai facility, with collection and delivery across Nairobi. We’ve been handling household and business storage since 2019, serving clients from Kilimani to Kasarani, Westlands to Embakasi.
Call 0724 225 178 or WhatsApp 0736 002 144 for a free quote.
Learn more: Storage Services in Nairobi
Related articles:
- How Much Does House Moving Cost in Nairobi?
- Office Relocation Checklist for Nairobi Businesses
- Best Time to Move House in Nairobi (Avoid End-Month Rush)