How to Transport Plants Safely

Transportar plantas bidones kraft

Transporting plants may seem simple, but those who work in nurseries, greenhouses or in the distribution of plant products know that it is not. These are living organisms, sensitive to temperature, humidity, shocks and sudden changes in the environment. 

If the move is not planned carefully, it is easy for the plants to arrive in poor condition, causing financial losses and, worse still, a loss of customer confidence.

Most common risks in plant transport

The biggest enemy of plants during transport is instability. Knocks, vibrations or excessive pressure between pots can damage stems, leaves and roots. Added to this are external factors such as heat inside a closed vehicle, lack of ventilation or excessive humidity.

Time also plays a key role: the longer the journey, the greater the likelihood that the plant will suffer stress and lose quality.

The importance of packaging

Packaging is not a mere detail, but rather the element that makes the difference between safe transport and failed transport. Suitable packaging must cushion impacts, allow for some breathability, and withstand the loading, unloading, and intermediate storage phases.

At Joaquín Alberto S.A., we work with kraft fibre drums, a solution that combines strength and lightness. These containers absorb vibrations, prevent plants from being crushed, and, at the same time, offer the advantage of being recyclable and customisable.

Planta bidon kraft

For more delicate shipments, they can be reinforced with internal dividers or specific lids to ensure the integrity of the product.

Practical tips for transporting plants

Beyond packaging, there are some basic recommendations that help maintain product quality:

  1. Plan the route to reduce travel time and avoid extreme temperatures.
  2. Place plants firmly inside the container, leaving no room for sudden movements.
  3. Use dividers or fillers on long journeys to prevent crushing.
  4. Label the packaging correctly with handling and orientation instructions.
  5. Monitor ventilation during transport, especially in hot weather.

Long-distance transport

For exports or journeys lasting several days, the requirements are greater. Here, it is essential to work with approved and regulated packaging that complies with international transport regulations.

In addition to protecting the product, this instils confidence in customers and reduces incidents at customs or intermediate controls.

A clear example is that of nurseries that export aromatic herbs to European markets. When they used conventional packaging, losses were frequent. By switching to reinforced Kraft drums with dividers and labels, they managed to drastically reduce incidents.

Safety and sustainability: two sides of the same coin

Transporting plants safely doesn’t just mean getting them there in perfect condition. It also means doing so in an environmentally responsible way. More and more customers value packaging that is recyclable, reusable and made from materials that reduce their environmental footprint.

Kraft paper is a clear example: it protects the product and, at the same time, reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainability.

Transporting plants safely requires planning, suitable packaging and reliable suppliers. It is not just a matter of moving a product from one point to another, but of ensuring that it arrives in optimal condition and with the same quality with which it left the nursery.

At Joaquín Alberto, we have been helping companies meet this challenge for more than four decades with sustainable, safe packaging adapted to every need. If you are looking for a partner to ensure your plants travel safely to any destination, please contact us.