Established in 1921, SAAFF is South Africa’s national association representing freight forwarders and logistics service providers. With over a century of expertise, the association provides members with support on customs compliance, permits and regulations, government agency matters, and international logistics standards.

Cold Chain Relevance: SAAFF is the critical resource for cold chain operators involved in international trade—importing frozen proteins, exporting fresh produce, or moving pharmaceutical products across borders. The association provides specialized guidance on reefer container bookings, temperature monitoring requirements for sea freight, and air cargo handling protocols for perishables. For operators shipping temperature-controlled goods, SAAFF offers expertise on customs documentation for perishable cargo (including phytosanitary certificates and veterinary permits), transit time implications for product shelf life, and the logistics of maintaining cold chain integrity from South African facilities to international destinations. The association’s relationships with shipping lines and airlines help members navigate the capacity constraints and premium pricing that apply to temperature-controlled cargo.