Key points
- Agree carton content and protection for each flower type.
- Check temperatures and handling instructions for the actual assortment.
- Assign responsibility at every handover, including destination collection.
By Zavora Fresh Exports · Nairobi, Kenya
Choose packaging around flower protection, not just capacity
Ask how the carton layout protects flower heads and stems against compression and movement. Specify sleeves, bunch counts and box content. The arrangement that works for one rose grade may not work for bulky summer flowers or foliage.
Compare box dimensions and counts alongside the product price. Higher packing density is only useful if it preserves the agreed quality. Include label requirements so your receiving team can identify the assortment without opening every box at the airport.
Discuss protective sleeves and carton specifications through Zavora’s custom packaging services before agreeing a box count.
Map the full cold-chain handover
Ask who manages harvest-to-packhouse handling, packing, transport to JKIA, carrier acceptance and onward collection. A plan should identify how unsuitable exposure and delays are limited at each point, not simply state that the shipment is refrigerated.
Confirm product-specific instructions with the supplier. Mixed consignments need compatibility checks, and a single temperature number should not be applied blindly to every cut flower, herb or chilli. If monitoring is requested, confirm its availability, placement and reporting in writing.
- Packing and storage responsibility before dispatch
- Transport and airport acceptance arrangements
- Proposed flight and any transit points
- Destination clearance, collection and onward storage responsibility
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Evaluate routing and packing assumptions together
The cheapest freight quote may involve handovers or timing that do not suit a perishable assortment. Ask for the proposed route, packing assumptions and a realistic arrival window. Separate a scheduled flight from a guaranteed shipment commitment.
Freight costs can depend on both dimensions and weight. Confirm how the proposed boxes affect the quoted charge and what happens if the packing plan changes. Avoid comparing freight prices that use different shipment assumptions.
Prepare clearance and receiving care in advance
Share required documentation with the clearing agent before departure so discrepancies can be addressed early. Confirm the entry point’s operating arrangements and organise collection and suitable storage before the flowers arrive.
Inspect on receipt, reconcile counts and follow the agreed hydration or storage instructions for the assortment. Record damaged packing, flower condition and any delays with photographs and notes before redistribution. These records help distinguish packing problems from handling issues.
Keep claims and follow-up evidence clear
Agree the reporting process and required evidence before dispatch. Temperature records, when specifically arranged, can support a handling review but do not alone explain every quality problem. Keep the commercial specification and arrival observations together.
For a Zavora enquiry, ask the team to confirm the available packing, freight coordination and documentation scope for your flower assortment. Current supply and arrival planning must be agreed per order.
Review the delivery and claims policy alongside the quotation so you know how arrival concerns should be reported.
Start your first shipment
Message us on WhatsApp or email our sourcing team. We will confirm availability, packing options and pricing for your market.
Frequently asked questions
- Does cold storage alone guarantee flower quality?
- No. Product condition, packing protection, handling time, routing and receiving care also affect the flowers.
- Can all flowers use the same packing and temperature?
- Do not assume so. Confirm instructions for the actual flower types and check compatibility before mixing products.
- Who should organise collection at the destination airport?
- The quotation should state responsibilities. Confirm the importer or clearing agent’s collection, clearance and onward storage arrangements before dispatch.
Related produce
Explore Kenyan cut flowers
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View flowersPlan for your destination market
Buying from Kenya for Africa, Europe, the Middle East or Asia? Start with the relevant regional guide, then confirm your country’s product eligibility, documents, airport handling and proposed routing. Regional guidance is not a guarantee of supply, direct flights or destination approval.
Sources and further checks
Import requirements can change. Verify current rules for your product and destination with the relevant authority and your clearing agent before ordering.