When moving homes or offices in Kenya, the safety of your belongings and the moving crew should be a top priority. Professional movers understand this and take various safety measures to minimize risks during packing, transportation, and unloading. These practices not only ensure the protection of your property but also help prevent injuries and damage to buildings.
Pre-Move Assessment
Before the actual move, reputable movers conduct a site visit. This helps them:
- Assess the size and nature of the items to be moved
- Identify potential hazards (narrow stairways, loose tiles, etc.)
- Plan logistics including vehicle type, equipment needs, and manpower
By planning in advance, they reduce the chance of accidents or property damage.
Protective Packing Materials
To safeguard your belongings, movers use high-quality packing materials such as:
- Bubble wrap and foam padding for fragile items
- Corrugated boxes for general items
- Blankets and moving pads to protect furniture
- Stretch wrap and packing tape to secure items in place
Proper packing is a crucial safety measure that reduces the risk of breakage during transit.
Labeling and Inventory
Boxes are clearly labeled with contents and handling instructions such as “fragile” or “this side up.” Movers also maintain an inventory list that helps keep track of items and reduces the chances of loss or misplacement.
Lifting and Loading Techniques
Professional movers are trained in proper lifting techniques to avoid injuries. They:
- Bend at the knees, not the waist
- Use dollies and hand trucks for heavy loads
- Team-lift bulky or oversized items
- Wear supportive gloves and back braces when necessary
Correct loading practices ensure that heavy items are placed on the bottom and lighter, fragile items on top.
Vehicle Safety
Safety doesn’t end at packing and loading. Moving companies take the following steps to ensure vehicle safety:
- Regular maintenance of trucks and vans
- Properly securing items inside the vehicle using straps and braces
- Avoiding overloading or uneven weight distribution
- Using closed-body vehicles to protect against weather
In long-distance moves, drivers take scheduled breaks to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
Protective Gear and Clothing
The moving crew often wears safety gear such as:
- Steel-toe boots
- Gloves to protect hands
- High-visibility vests
- Face masks (where necessary)
This ensures both their safety and that of the client’s property during the move.
Covid-19 and Health Protocols
Since the pandemic, many moving companies in Kenya have adopted health-related safety measures:
- Sanitizing hands and equipment regularly
- Wearing face masks
- Social distancing where applicable
- Temperature checks for staff
These health protocols help ensure a safer move for both customers and employees.
Insurance Coverage
Reputable movers provide basic or comprehensive insurance coverage to safeguard against loss or damage. While this is not a physical safety measure, it offers financial protection and peace of mind.
Secure Handling of High-Value Items
Items like TVs, computers, and artwork receive special attention. Movers often use custom crates or extra cushioning, and may transport such items separately to minimize the risk of damage.
Post-Move Safety Checks
After unloading, movers:
- Reassemble furniture and check for damage
- Place items in designated rooms
- Remove debris and packing materials to prevent tripping hazards
This final step ensures that your new space is safe and ready to occupy.
Professional movers in Kenya implement various safety measures throughout the moving process. From packing to transportation and final delivery, their focus on safety protects your belongings, your property, and their crew. When hiring movers, always ask about the safety protocols they follow to ensure a smooth and risk-free relocation.