Transportation of flowers and plants is a task, the successful solution of which depends on many factors. After all, it is important not only to preserve freshness and appearance, but also to provide plants with proper temperature conditions, fixation and protection from mechanical damage. In this article we will tell you how to safely transport plants and what services TVL offers for such tasks.
What difficulties arise in the transportation of plants and flowers
So, in order to successfully cope with the task associated with the transportation of flowers and plants, you will need to have some knowledge both in the field of organizing transportation and in the field of floriculture and plant breeding. Because to keep the delicate cargo intact and fresh, the transportation of plants and flowers should be comfortable, guaranteed safe and fast. In the process of delivery, you need to be prepared to deal with different problems related to what needs to be taken into consideration:
- Tenderness and fragility of plants. Such cargo requires special delicacy and consideration of its specifics when transporting flowers in the car.
- It can be spoiled and destroyed by any factors that for other cargoes do not play any role, as their delicate and fragile stems, leaves and flowers can die even from an unfortunate contact with each other.
- Influence of temperature, humidity and light. If it is too hot or too cold – plants can wilt, freeze or get burned, as they tolerate temperature changes very badly. Also, low humidity can cause plants to dry out, and poor ventilation can lead to mold and rot.
- Risks of mechanical damage during transportation. Fragile stems and branches can break or crumple at any force majeure on the road, which is required to initially prevent the correct packaging for transportation of flowers.
Quick disposal and shortened shelf life. Live flowers and plants do not live long without proper care. Therefore, it is necessary that the transportation of such goods should be as fast as possible.
It is also important to keep in mind that the transportation of plants across the border will require additional measures, for which you need to prepare in advance. Namely – to obtain a phytosanitary certificate, certificates of origin, import permits. Their availability will speed up customs procedures and shorten the delivery time.
Preparing for transportation: how to pack plants and flowers
Properly selected packaging is half of the success in the transportation of plants and flowers. It must protect against damage, maintain a microclimate and not interfere with the respiration of the plant. The choice should be approached differentiated, taking into account the type of plants, the duration of the route and its specifics.
Thus, it is worth bearing in mind that, for example, when transporting indoor plants in pots, it is important to fix the root part and protect the foliage. And flowers with delicate petals (roses, peonies, tulips) require more delicate packaging than, for example, succulents and cacti, which are afraid of excessive moisture, but well tolerate transportation.
It is therefore worth using suitable packaging materials:
- Kraft paper for wrapping the stems, protecting them from evaporation;
- cardboard boxes, which have a rigid frame and serve as protection against mechanical damage;
- cardboard inserts, foam pads, paper rollers;
- foam rubber, foam plastic, wood shavings for cushioning and fixation;
- transportation trays as a base for pot stability;
- mesh and florist film, holding the shape of the bouquet, protecting from wind and moisture.
It is obligatory to take into account the seasonality of transportation. So, in the cold season it is necessary to add thermal packaging (for example, isothermal foil), use heat packs or warmers. In summer, it makes sense to use ventilated boxes for the transportation of flowers.
An important factor is the length of the route. If you expect to complete the transportation in 24 hours, you can use lighter packaging. If the delivery is longer, it is advisable to use moistened wipes at the roots, gel balls, droppers, moisturizing sponges.
Marking “Fragile” and “Live Plants” on the package will increase the likelihood of successful transportation. The use of isothermal packages, thermo-boxes, and transportation in climate-controlled transport will help protect delicate cargo from temperature differences that are so poorly tolerated by it.
Transportation conditions and choice of transport
The need to comply with special conditions for delivery involves taking into account not only how to pack indoor flowers or plants for transportation, but also the correct choice of suitable transport. Of course, delicate cargo is delivered by all types of transport, depending on the conditions and terms of delivery, but the most popular type of transportation – automobile. Special vehicles maintain the necessary temperature regime and ventilation for a particular type of plants, without strict control over which it is impossible to deliver products unspoiled and fresh. It is worth choosing:
- Transportation of flowers in refrigerated trucks – an ideal delivery option, as they maintain the right temperature (usually +2-7°C).
- Climate-controlled vans – a good choice for short routes, especially if you need to maintain humidity and temperature.
- Isothermal bodies – suitable for transportation in cooler seasons, as they maintain temperature but do not cool,.
Choose a professional carrier for delivery. Such companies usually have not only a modern fleet of vehicles, including different types of transport, but also qualified personnel. Experienced managers will develop competent logistics, know how to pack indoor flowers and plants for transportation and monitor the condition of the cargo throughout the journey.
Plant transportation with TVL – safe and on time
If you don’t know how to transport indoor flowers or plants to another city or even country, contact TVL. Experienced carrier delivers delicate cargo to all regions of Ukraine and Europe, having a diverse modern fleet of vehicles. Competent professional advice, careful packing and cargo tracking at all stages of transportation make cooperation with TVL comfortable and efficient. Qualified managers will prepare favorable special solutions for florist companies and nurseries.
Clients choose TVL for the delivery of live and fragile goods based on its vast experience, positive feedback and high professionalism, implementation of technological know-how and guaranteed compliance with delivery terms and conditions.
