Moving day presents security vulnerabilities you may not have considered. Strangers in your home, items stacked outside, keys left unattended—these create opportunities for theft. Here's how to protect yourself.

Before the Move

Document Everything:

  • Take photos/videos of all valuable items and their condition
  • Write down serial numbers for electronics
  • List high-value items separately
  • Keep documentation in a safe place (not moving with your goods)

Check Your Insurance:

  • Confirm your homeowner's/renter's policy covers items during the move
  • Ask about additional coverage for high-value items
  • Get goods-in-transit insurance from your mover

Hire Vetted Movers:

  • Use established companies with good track records
  • Ask for references and check them
  • Avoid hiring day laborers you don't know

On Moving Day

Assign a Supervisor: One family member should be present throughout the move to:

  • Oversee what goes onto the truck
  • Check box counts and contents
  • Prevent unauthorized people from entering
  • Lock valuables in a separate vehicle

Secure High-Value Items:

  • Keep jewelry, documents, and valuables with you (not in boxes)
  • Transport electronics in your personal vehicle if possible
  • Don't leave cash or credit cards lying around
  • Lock your car when moving items in/out
Secure moving practices

At Your Old Home

  • Lock internal doors: Close off rooms you don't want movers in (master bedroom, office)
  • Secure your old keys: Keep copies away from movers
  • Monitor entry and exit: Don't leave gates open unattended
  • Keep count of movers: Know how many people are working for you
  • Ask for ID: Confirm they're part of the crew; unauthorized people sometimes follow moving trucks

At Your New Home

  • Be present when items arrive: Verify contents as they're unloaded
  • Check seals on boxes: Are they intact? Any signs of tampering?
  • Don't leave windows/doors open: New homes can feel vulnerable; keep entry points secured
  • Install new locks immediately: You don't know who has copies of old keys
  • Don't broadcast your absence: Avoid social media posts about moving day

Unpacking Safely

  • Don't leave empty boxes outside (signals the contents inside are new)
  • Break down boxes and store them inside or secure them
  • Keep receipts for valuable items (proof of purchase)
  • Update your home insurance with new address and inventory

After the Move

  • Change locks: A professional locksmith costs KES 2,000–5,000 (worth it)
  • Update security system codes: If the home has an alarm system
  • Get new keys made: Only for people who need them
  • File your moving company feedback: Report any suspicious behavior

If Theft Occurs

Report immediately:

  • File a police report (get incident number)
  • Report to your insurance company with documentation
  • File a claim with your moving company
  • Follow up in writing within the timeframe specified in your contract

Moving day security starts with preparation and vigilance. While theft is rare with reputable movers, the precautions you take protect your peace of mind and your belongings.