End-to-end cold chain logistics for flowers
Every Valentine's day, millions of roses make their way into homes and offices across South Africa. Behind the scenes, an intricate cold chain logistics network ensures these flowers arrive fresh and on time.
How flower logistics works between Kenya and South Africa
Fresh flower logistics is one of the most time-sensitive supply chains in the world. From Kenyan flower farms to retailers in South Africa, every hour counts. Through specialised perishable logistics and cold chain transport solutions, DSV helps retailers and importers move temperature-sensitive goods quickly and reliably across Africa.
DSV moved approximately 83,000 kilograms / 83 tonnes of roses into South Africa for Valentine's Day this year. That's around 2,3 million stems that made their way into homes and offices around the country!
But have you ever wondered just how so many fresh flowers are available where and when they are needed? Our perishables business specialises in global cold chain logistics and perishable transport, supporting industries that rely on temperature controlled supply chain such as food, pharmaceuticals - and of course cross-border flower logistics in Africa.
To maintain freshness, DSV combines temperature-controlled air freight, specialist on-airport cold storage (In Cape Town and Johannesburg), and customs expertise to ensure flowers move quickly from farm to retailers.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers
Flower imports from Kenya are transported through DSV's temperature-controlled flower shipping supply chain.
Cold chain logistics refers to maintaining a continuous temperature-controlled environment from farm to final destination. For flowers, even small temperature fluctuations can shorten vase life.
You need a valid import permit from the National Plant Protection Organisation of South Africa (NPPOZA) to bring flowers into South Africa, as well as phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country, and a commercial invoice. These documents verify compliance with the Agricultural Pests Act to ensure biosecurity.
Fresh flowers have a very short shelf life. Air freight allows flowers to move quickly from farm to international markets while maintaining strict temperature control. This rapid transport helps preserve freshness, colour, and vase life for retailers and consumers.
It takes just 18 hours from being picked to going on sale at a retailer and this speed from farm to retailer is essential to get the best out of the flowers on their special day.
DSV prevents damage to flowers during transport through strict cold chain flower management, specialised protective packaging, and rapid, specialised handling. We know flowers are highly perishable and sensitive to temperature fluctuations, and so we maintain a constant, low temperature (typically between 1-5°C) to slow down metabolic activity and wilting.
Why choose DSV for flower logistics?
With decades of experience in perishable logistics and temperature-controlled supply chains, DSV supports retailers, importers, and growers with reliable flower transport across Africa which includes:
Specialised infrastructure
DSV operates dedicated, on-airport cold storage facilities, including a 2,000m2 warehouse at OR Tambo International Airport and a 1,700m2 facility near Cape Town International Airport. These facilities feature multiple cold rooms with varying temperature zones, including forced cooling, freezer storage, and specialised zones for flowers.
Comprehensive services
We offer end-to-end flower logistics, from farm to consumer, including air charters, cold storage, re-icing (dry/wet ice), insulation blankets, palletising, and containerising.
Regulatory compliance
DSV is an accredited Regulated Agent with the Civil Aviation Authority in South Africa, and we comply with strict security and safety regulations. We also manage all the necessary documentation, including phytosanitary certificates, veterinary, and Perishable Product Export Control Board (PPECB) inspections, as well as customs clearance for flower imports.
Key markets and goods
In addition to South Africa, DSV handles significant perishable goods volumes for East Africa exports, such as avocados from Kenya to the UK, navigating complex cold chain requirements to prevent spoilage.
Logistics innovation
Our refrigerated road feeder services connect regional produce to international flights from Johannesburg during peak seasons or times of disruption.
trusted perishable logistics across africa and beyond
Reliable cold chain solutions
Whether it's fresh flowers, fruit, pharmaceuticals, or other temperature-sensitive goods, DSV helps businesses move perishables safely and efficiently across African and global markets.
Any questions?
Our experts are ready to help. Get in touch and we'll find the solution you need.
