Moving internationally is exponentially more complex than moving across Kenya. You're navigating customs regulations, international shipping routes, and paperwork from multiple countries. Here's what to expect and how to prepare.
Understand Export Documentation
Before anything leaves Kenya, you need export documents:
- Shipping Bill: Lists your cargo and its value (provided by your shipping company)
- Invoice: Itemized list with prices
- Packing List: Details weight, dimensions, and contents of each box
- Personal Declaration: For your move (sometimes required by customs)
Work with your international mover—they know which documents your destination country requires.
Choose the Right Shipping Method
Full Container Load (FCL): Your shipment fills an entire container. More expensive but faster and less handling. Best for 10+ rooms of furniture.
Less Than Container Load (LCL): Your shipment shares a container with others. Cheaper but slower and involves more transfers. Good for smaller moves.
Air Freight: Fastest option but extremely expensive. Reserve for high-value items you need quickly.
Budget for Hidden Costs
International moves are expensive. Budget includes:
- Packing and boxing (often KES 50,000–200,000)
- Shipping (ocean freight: KES 200,000–500,000+)
- Insurance (typically 2-3% of cargo value)
- Customs clearance and duties at destination
- Destination delivery and unpacking
- Visa/documentation costs
Total costs for a family move often exceed KES 500,000–1,000,000.
Know Import Restrictions at Destination
Every country has rules about what can be imported:
- Some countries restrict electronics or appliances
- Pet imports require health certificates and quarantine
- Antiques or items of cultural value may require special permits
- Some items are prohibited entirely (check before packing)
Your international mover should provide a list of restricted items for your destination country.
Plan an Extended Timeline
International moves take much longer than local ones:
- Export preparation: 2-4 weeks
- Ocean shipping: 4-8 weeks depending on destination
- Customs clearance: 1-3 weeks
- Destination delivery: 1-2 weeks
- Total: 8-16 weeks
Plan to be without your belongings for several months. Pack an "essentials box" with items you'll need immediately.
Hire an Experienced International Mover
This is not the time to save money with an amateur. Look for:
- FIDI (International Furniture Removals Federation) certification
- Experience with Kenya-to-[destination country] routes
- References from recent clients who moved to your destination
- Clear communication about timelines and costs
- Insurance coverage you can verify
Prepare for Customs Inspection
Your shipment will be inspected at the destination country. Make sure:
- All boxes are clearly labeled with contents
- Valuable items are photographed with appraisal documentation
- Your personal declaration is honest and complete
- You're prepared to pay customs duties if assessed
International moving requires patience, thorough planning, and a trusted partner. The investment in a reputable international mover pays dividends in reduced stress and intact belongings.
