KENYA

Karibu - Welcome

Worldwide Movers Kenya provide international relocations by sea and air, pet relocation, local moves, office moves and storage. We also provide an essential import and export service by sea and air, for international AID agencies.

OUR TEAM

Worldwide Movers Africa (Kenya) is based in the capital Nairobi. We have highly experienced staff who have been with us for many years. We take pride our services and have three full packing crews and a fleet of well maintained vehicles. With a focus on customer service, hard work, dedication and staff training our business has an excellent reputation for good communication and quality of service.

Our dedicated team are knowledgeable, experienced and have extensive removal skills. We have comprehensive export/import, freight and customs formalities abilities.

Our team attend annual workshops and overseas conferences with agency network partners. We are proud of our reputation as Africa’s Gold Standard of the relocation industry.



Neena Prior
Director

Neena and her team at Worldwide Movers Africa (Kenya) have provided over Twenty Five years of Gold Standard service in Kenya.

Neena Prior personally oversees all relocations, ensuring clients in Kenya receive the highest level of professionalism and expertise.



Joshua Prior
Operations Manager

Joshua has now joined the family business and brings with him a wide range of business skills gained within Kenya.

COUNTRY PROFILE

Population: Approximatley 51.5 million people.

Capital: Nairobi (also the largest city and the economic hub).

Language: English and Swahili (Official) with numerous indigenous languages

Political System: Presidential

GDP (Gross Domestic Product): Currently c. $113 billion.

GDP per Capita: Approximately $2,200

Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Located in East Africa, Kenya is a presidential representative democratic republic. The President is both the head of state and government. The political landscape has been characterized by a multi-party system.

Kenya has a diverse economy with agriculture, including tea and coffee and  services, particularly tourism and telecommunications, being significant. The country is part of the East African Community and has a growing technology sector.

Kenya is culturally diverse with various ethnic groups, including the Kikuyu, Luo, Maasai. This is reflected in music, dance, art, and traditional ceremonies. Nairobi, the capital, is a cultural hub with museums, theatres, and vibrant street life.

There is religious tolerance among different faiths, whilst Christianity and Islam are the main religions, traditional African religions also play a role.

Renowned for its rich biodiversity, Kenya is home to diverse wildlife. National parks and reserves, such as the Maasai Mara and Amboseli, offer opportunities for wildlife safaris. The "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhinoceros) are among the many species found in the country.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Mobile phone and Internet

Mobile phone and internet services are provided by - Safaricom (most widely used), Airtel Kenya, Telkom Kenya, Faiba (Jamii Telecommunications) and Equitel. Internet is also provided by Zuku.

Getting around and Orientation

Our City Orientation Tour provides a safe and friendly way to get to know your new home. We help you to find what you need and make your initial settling-in period a little easier. We are happy to drive you and show you some key places. Or, you can drive your own car to get accustomed to driving in local city traffic.

Matatus (shared minibus) operate on fixed routes within the city and its suburbs. They are a popular and affordable mode of transportation. They can be crowded and may not always follow strict schedules.

Boda Bodas:
Boda bodas are motorcycle taxis that can weave through traffic, providing a quicker way to get around the city. While they are convenient, safety can be a concern, so it's essential to choose reputable riders and wear a helmet.

Uber or Bolt provide convenient and reliable services. Use the app to get a ride, track the driver's location, and pay electronically.

Taxis are readily available in Nairobi. Negotiate the fare before starting the journey if the taxi doesn't use a meter.

Public Buses operate on fixed routes and are a cost-effective means of transportation. Not as common as matatus, but cover more extensive areas. Be prepared for crowded conditions during peak hours.

Car Rentals are available from various agents but traffic can be congested and driving conditions can take some getting used to.

Nairobi Metro is in the process of development.

Where to live

Here are some expat-friendly neighbourhoods in Nairobi:

Karen is a well-established and affluent suburb in Nairobi. It is known for its large properties, lush greenery, and upscale residences. Karen is home to many expatriates, and it offers amenities such as shopping malls, international schools, and cultural attractions. The suburb is named after Karen Blixen, the Danish author of "Out of Africa," who lived in the area.

Lavington is a residential area that caters to both locals and expatriates. It has a mix of housing options, including apartments, townhouses, and standalone houses. Lavington is known for its vibrant social scene, shopping centers, and proximity to international schools.

Runda is an exclusive residential area characterised by large properties and gated communities. It is a favorite among expatriates and high-net-worth individuals. Runda is known for its security, tranquility, and proximity to diplomatic missions and international schools.

Gigiri is home to the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) and several diplomatic missions. It's a diplomatic and expatriate hub, offering upscale housing options, shopping malls like Village Market, and proximity to the UN complex. Gigiri is also close to the Karura Forest for outdoor activities.

Westlands is a bustling commercial and residential area with a vibrant nightlife, shopping centers, and restaurants. It attracts a mix of locals and expatriates. Westlands is known for its diverse housing options, including apartments and townhouses.

Kileleshwa is a residential neighbourhood that has grown in popularity among expatriates. It offers a mix of housing options, including apartments and townhouses. Kileleshwa is centrally located, making it convenient for commuting to different parts of Nairobi.

Kilimani is a cosmopolitan neighbourhood known for its diverse community. It has a range of housing options, including modern apartments and townhouses. Kilimani is popular for its trendy restaurants, cafes, and proximity to social amenities.

Rosslyn is an upscale suburb known for its luxurious residences and tranquil environment. It is located to the north of Nairobi and offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Rosslyn is popular among expatriates and high-profile individuals.

Visit different areas, explore the amenities, and consider personal preferences before choosing where to live.

Schools

Look for international schools that follow recognised curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British or American educational systems.

International School of Kenya (ISK) International School of Kenya

Braeburn Schools Braeburn Schools

Rosslyn Academy Rosslyn Academy

Brookhouse School Brookhouse School

German School Nairobi (Deutsche Schule Nairobi) German School Nairobi

Hillcrest International School Hillcrest International School

St. Andrew's School, Turi St. Andrew's School, Turi

Peponi School Peponi School

Cavina School Cavina School

Light International School Light International School

Ensure that the schools are accredited by relevant educational authorities or international accreditation bodies.

Consider the curriculum offered by the school and whether it aligns with your child's educational needs and future plans.

Check the school's facilities, resources, and extracurricular activities to ensure a well-rounded education.

Aim for accommodation and schooling within a sensible commute!

Safety

Stay safe, be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Research: Learn about the city and which areas are safe. Stay updated on local news and events, travel advisories or safety alerts issued for the city.

Accommodation: Use reputable well-reviewed accommodations. Look for good security measures. Use reliable booking platforms to ensure your reservation is legitimate.

Transport: Use licensed and reputable transport options. Avoid travelling alone late at night and use well-lit and busy routes.

Avoid Risky Areas: Be cautious in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas, especially at night.

Personal Belongings: Keep your belongings secure. Use anti-theft backpacks or money belts. Be cautious with flashy jewellery, expensive gadgets and large amounts of cash.

Contacts: Contact locals or expats who can give you guidance. Share your plans with someone you trust. Know the local emergency numbers (police, medical, fire). Carry a list of contacts, including the nearest embassy or consulate.

ITC: Use secure Wi-Fi connections and consider using a VPN. Keep your devices charged and have a backup power source.

Language: Learn some basic phrases in the local language, especially those for seeking help or directions.

Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly in areas where it is appropriate.

Health Precautions: Be aware of health risks and take necessary vaccinations. Carry necessary medications and know the location of local medical facilities.

Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it. Trust your instincts and be cautious about accepting invitations or assistance from strangers.

FAQS

How are moving costs calculated?

Moving costs are based on factors such as:

The volume and weight of your belongings

Whether your belongings are being shipped by air, sea or road (or a combination)

Your origin and destination

Any special requirements you have such as crating for art work

Ease of access to your property

Additional services requested

Please provide our surveyor and operations manager with as much information as possible.

We use the assessment made by our surveyor and the information you provide to calculate your quote.

Why do I need a Survey?

As each move is unique our service usually begins with a survey. Our surveyor will estimate the volume of goods to be shipped and the materials needed. He will listen carefully to any special instructions or requests you may have. He will also make an assessment of the property checking for any access issues (narrow gates or height restrictions) and look at lift access and staircases.

Do you provide packing services?

We have teams of highly experienced professional packers

We use high quality and appropriate materials to protect and pack your belongings

* You should not pack your own belongings

Many countries will not allow entry of goods that have been packed by their owners (PBO). This ensures no prohibited items are shipped with your belongings.

Any boxes labelled PBO are very likely to be opened and searched by customs officials

Our teams will produce a detailed packing list which they will ask you to sign

Are there any items you cannot move?

We do not ship prohibited goods, such as:

Ivory or furs, drugs, weapons, hazardous materials or perishable items.

Each location has its own export and import regulations. Our teams will be able to advise.

We do not pack keys or passports (you will need those)

It is recommended that you carry any small high value items, such as jewellery, rather than having it shipped with your goods

Is my shipment insured during the move?

Your normal household insurance is unlikely to cover your goods in transit.

We offer protection cover for your move including marine insurance.

Your shipment may be insured by your origin agent if you are importing your goods to us.

It is very important that you complete a detailed valued inventory of your goods as one box may contain items of much greater value than another.

Please read our terms and conditions for information on liability.

How should I prepare for the move?

It helps if you are organised.....

Make sure you have applied for any visas or permissions you will need and have your passports up to date and ready

Dispose of or sell any items you do not wish to take

Separate items to be shipped from those to remain

Separate items to be shipped by air and those to be shipped by sea (if appropriate)

Label or attach stickers to the items to be packed

Organise school books or your children's much loved toys

How long will it take to move my belongings to my new home?

From start to finish the entire moving process has a number of steps:

Survey - please book your survey as far in advance as is practical

Quote - once your survey is done our team will contact shipping line and destination agents. Once all this information is in and collated we can provide you with a quote/estimate.

PLEASE NOTIFY US OF ANY CHANGES

Packing dates - we can be very busy especially at peak packing time in the summer months. We will always aim to pack on or close to your preferred dates when possible

Transport to port

Export clearing

Loading onto shipping vessel

Transit by sea or air - this can take a day to several weeks. We can give an estimated time of arrival (ETA) to help you with planning. However, many things affect the transit time and are out of our control: technical issues, weather, international incidents, port congestion etc. Your shipment is tracked and the ETA adjusted accordingly.

Offloading from the vessel

Import clearing

Transport to storage or your new home

Unpacking and debris removal

What other costs might I expect to incur?

We will provide you with a comprehensive and detailed quote for our services which should highlight any exclusions.

DUTY AND TAX: Customs/import duty is imposed when people bring goods into a country. Duty can vary widely depending on the country and its specific customs regulations. Personal belongings and household goods are sometimes duty free or have a reduced rate. Exemptions or reductions may apply to some individuals, such as expatriates on short-term assignments and diplomats. Depending on the country there may be other taxes and levys charged on your shipment.

A customs declaration including a detailed inventory, packing list, and relevant identification documents is crucial for smooth customs clearance. Some countries may require additional documents, such as a visa, work permit, or proof of residence. We can provide guidance on the documentation required and potential duty implications.

DEMURRAGE: Demurrage is charged by a shipowner for any delay in loading/unloading a vessel or returning the container beyond the allowed free time. Delays can arise for many reasons including port congestion, customers not presenting the required paperwork on time etc

Free time is generally about 5 days for an air import and 7 days for a sea import (including weekends and holidays). Charges are calculated on a daily rate for each day beyond the free time.

We are unable to include demurrage charges in our quote as they vary. You, your origin agent or your company are usually responsible for paying demurrage. It is important for us to know who to contact so that they can be paid efficiently, the container is released and further unnecessary charges are not incurred.

OTHER

Inspections - Your shipment may be selected for inspection or X-Ray by officials for which there will be an additional fee.

Storage - We are able to store your household goods for you if for example your new home is not ready. We charge warehouse handling and storage for this service.

Handyman - We offer other services such as a handyman if you need other work such as putting up curtains, electrical work, assembly of IKEA furniture and so on....

Out of Hours - Additional may be incurred if you require us to work after hours, on weekends or public holidays.

Can you relocate my pets?

International relocation of pets involves careful planning and adherence to regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of your furry friends.

We have moved many pets all over the world including USA, UK, many EU countries, New Zealand, Australia, Cyprus, Thailand, Singapore....

Pet import requirements and regulations vary and some countries have strict rules and timelines to which you must adhere.

Ensure that your pet has a compliant microchip registered with your contact information.

Visit your veterinarian well in advance and ensure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations required by the destination country. Give parasite treatments according to the regulations of the destination country. Obtain a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian shortly before travel.

An import permit may be required by the destination country. Obtain the necessary permits and ensure compliance with any waiting periods. Be aware of any quarantine requirements in the destination country.

You will need an IATA and airline-approved travel crate that provides enough space for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Familiarise your pet with the crate before travel. Include familiar items like blankets or toys in the travel crate (but no choking hazards). Ensure access to water and any necessary medications during the journey.

We organise the door-to-door relocation of pets, from collection at your residence, booking with the airline, airport procedures and processing, arranging a destination agent and hand over or delivery to your new home. We select an airline we trust with experience in transporting pets. We consider the travel time, any transfers and their location so that we choose the best route for the comfort and safety of your pet/s. Some airlines have specific pet travel programs.

You will need to provide original copies of all your pets documents. We will also need your old and new address and contact information.

NB: Do not give your pet any sedative or calming medications/supplements - these can have devastating affects at altitude. We will refuse to ship your animal if we suspect it is sedated.

We can also relocate other animals and always adhere to regulations. If your pet is CITES listed you will need to provide the correct paperwork.

TESTIMONIALS

Dear Charles and William,

We would like to thank you, all of you, for the very good job you have done. Your team, this morning, was efficient and competent. We will have the pleasure to work with you again. Thank you very much.

Kindest regards Helene

Why Choose Us?

With over 30 years of experience on the African Continent, Worldwide Movers Africa has the knowledge and dedication needed to successfully move your belongings.

CONTACT THE KENYA TEAM

Contact Details

Email: wwmke@wwm.co.ke
Tel: +254 (0)20 513 4600
Mob: +254 (0)733 605 301


Courier

Worldwide Movers Kenya
ALP West Logistics Park
Block C Tilisa
Limuru
N Nairobi
Kenya

Postal Address

P.O. Box 46748-00100,
Nairobi,
Kenya

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