How to Avoid Moving Scams in Nairobi
81% of Kenyans have been targeted by fraud. Moving is one of the highest-risk moments — you are giving strangers access to everything you own. Here is how to protect yourself.
The Problem Is Real
Nairobi has "hundreds of briefcase moving companies" — no physical address, no real phone number, no accountability. They take your deposit via M-Pesa, then either disappear, show up with a truck too small, demand extra fees on the spot, or damage your belongings with no recourse.
7 Red Flags of a Fake Mover
No physical address or office
Legitimate movers have a real location you can visit. If they only exist on WhatsApp with no address, be cautious.
No Google Reviews or very few
Established movers have 50-500+ Google reviews. If a company has fewer than 10 reviews, or no online presence at all, that is a warning sign.
Demands 100% payment upfront
Never pay more than 50% deposit. The balance should be paid AFTER the move is complete and you have checked your items.
Price is significantly below market
If a 2-bed move is quoted at KES 5,000 when the market average is KES 15,000-25,000, they will either demand more on the day or provide terrible service.
No branded trucks or uniformed crew
Professional movers invest in branded vehicles and uniforms. An unmarked truck with casual labourers is a higher risk.
Cannot provide a written quote
A legitimate company will provide a written quote (even via WhatsApp) with itemised costs. Verbal-only quotes change on moving day.
Blocks your number after payment
If a mover becomes unreachable after receiving your deposit, you have been scammed. Always verify the company exists before paying.
How to Verify a Mover
Check Google Reviews
Search the company name on Google Maps. Read the reviews — especially the 1-star ones. Look for patterns (damaged items, hidden fees, no-shows).
Verify KRA PIN
Ask for their KRA PIN number. You can verify it on the KRA iTax portal (itax.kra.go.ke). A tax-registered business is more likely to be legitimate.
Visit their office
If possible, visit the mover's office or yard. Check that they actually have trucks and equipment. A company that only exists online is higher risk.
Ask for references
Request phone numbers of 2-3 recent customers. Call them and ask about the experience.
Use Pakisha
We compile Google Reviews, verify websites, and show transparent pricing for every mover we list. Start with movers who have verification badges.