How Much Do House Movers Charge in Nairobi?
Moving costs depend on how much you own, how far it goes, how easy it is to get in and out, and how much of the work you want done for you. How quotes are built, and how to avoid surprises.
By Cleantique SolutionsPublished 4 min read
The price of moving house in Nairobi can vary a lot between companies and between two moves that sound similar. A two-bedroom flat on the ground floor with parking at the door is a very different job from a two-bedroom flat on the fifth floor of a building where the lift is out and the lorry has to park outside the estate gate.
This guide explains what decides the cost of a house move, how a fair quote is built, and how to avoid the surprise charges that cause most moving-day arguments. We have not listed prices, because they depend so heavily on the details below.
What you are paying for
- The vehicle: sized to your belongings, plus fuel and the driver.
- The crew: the number of people and the hours they work.
- Materials: protective wrapping, blankets and straps, plus boxes and packing materials if you need them.
- Services: packing, dismantling and reassembly, and any extras such as mounting TVs or hanging curtains.
- Planning: the survey and coordination that make the day run smoothly.
The factors that decide the price
1. Volume of belongings
This is the biggest factor. It decides the size of vehicle, the number of trips and the size of the crew. It is not just the number of bedrooms. A two-bedroom flat with a full kitchen, a large wardrobe collection and a home office has far more to move than a sparsely furnished one.
2. Distance
Longer moves take more time and fuel. Within Nairobi, traffic can matter as much as distance; a move from Westlands to Syokimau at rush hour takes much longer than the kilometres suggest.
3. Access at both properties
| Access issue | Why it adds time |
|---|---|
| Stairs without a lift | Every item is carried up or down by hand |
| Lift restrictions | Goods lifts may only be available at certain hours |
| Parking distance | A long carry from the lorry to the door |
| Estate rules | Gate registration, restricted hours or size limits on vehicles |
| Narrow corridors and stairs | Large furniture may need dismantling or careful handling |
4. Packing
You can pack everything yourself, have the crew pack fragile items and the kitchen, or have a full pack. Packing is time-consuming, so a full pack adds significantly to the crew's time, but it saves you days of effort.
5. Dismantling and reassembly
Beds, wardrobes and desks that will not fit through doors need dismantling and reassembling. Complex wardrobes and bunk beds take longer.
6. Special items
Pianos, safes, large fridges, gym equipment, large mirrors and artwork need extra people, equipment or materials.
7. Date and time
Month end, the first days of the month, the end of school terms and weekends are the busiest periods for movers in Nairobi. Mid-week, mid-month moves are easier to book.
How a fair moving quote is built
- A survey. In person or by video call, covering your belongings and access at both properties.
- A written inventory or summary of what is moving and any special items.
- Services included: packing, materials, dismantling, reassembly and extras.
- Vehicle and crew for the job.
- Date and arrival time.
- The price, and what would change it, such as adding items after the survey.
A price given over the phone without a survey is the most common cause of disputes. When the lorry is half loaded and the crew realises there is more than expected, the price changes, and you are not in a strong position to argue.
Common surprise charges and how to avoid them
| Surprise | How to avoid it |
|---|---|
| “More items than quoted” | Make sure the survey covers everything, including stores, balconies and the garage |
| Extra trip needed | Confirm the vehicle size is based on a survey |
| Stairs or long carry charge | Mention access at both ends; ask if it is included |
| Waiting time | Be ready on time; book lifts and gate access in advance |
| Packing materials | Ask whether boxes and wrapping are included or extra |
| Reassembly not included | Confirm that dismantled furniture will be reassembled |
Ways to reduce the cost
- Declutter before the survey. Sell, donate or throw away what you do not need.
- Pack non-fragile items yourself and leave the kitchen and fragile items to the crew.
- Choose a mid-week, mid-month date if you can.
- Prepare access: book the lift, inform the estate and reserve parking.
- Be ready. Waiting for you to finish packing costs crew time.
- Combine services. Booking the move with a move-out clean or a fumigation of the new home can save time and coordination.
What is usually not included
- Disconnecting and reconnecting gas cookers, water heaters and washing machines.
- Moving hazardous items such as gas cylinders, fuel and chemicals.
- Storage, unless arranged.
- Cleaning the old or new property, unless booked.
Frequently asked questions
Do movers charge by the hour or by the job?
Both models exist. A fixed price based on a survey is usually easier to budget for and avoids disputes about time.
Is it cheaper to hire a pickup and casual labourers?
It can be cheaper upfront for a very small move. But you take on the risk of damage, delays, the wrong vehicle and labourers without equipment or experience. For anything more than a few items, a professional mover usually works out better value.
Should I tip the moving crew?
It is not expected, but it is appreciated if the team has done a good job.
How far ahead should I book?
About a week for a flat and two weeks for a house, more at month end.
For a firm, written price, request a moving survey. Read more about our home moving service.
About this guide
Written by the Cleantique Solutions team for homes and businesses in Nairobi. It is general guidance, not a substitute for an inspection or professional advice about your specific property. If anything here is unclear or out of date, tell us at hi@cleantique.co.ke.
