Integrated forestry operations — Forestry, Processing, Lumber, Round Logs, Timber-frame Structures and the Platorand Training Centre — spanning Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Mozambique.
1.4M m³
Annual Sustainable Volume
3 + 2
SA Provinces & Mozambique
5,000+
Jobs Created
FSC
Certified
SAFCOL's forestry operations form the backbone of our business. We manage commercial plantation forests across Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal, and through IFLOMA in Manica and Sofala provinces, Mozambique — producing approximately 1,400,000 m³ of timber sustainably each year.
Our plantations cultivate primarily pine (Pinus patula and Pinus elliottii), eucalyptus, and wattle species. Through responsible silvicultural practices, we ensure long-term sustainability of the resource while maintaining biodiversity corridors and protecting indigenous forests within our management areas.
SAFCOL holds Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, demonstrating our commitment to environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic viability in forest management. Our operations support over 5,000 direct jobs and sustain more than 25,000 livelihoods in surrounding communities.
MP
Mpumalanga
Largest Area
KZN
KwaZulu-Natal
Key Region
LP
Limpopo
Growth Hub
Our Timbadola sawmill transforms raw logs into high-quality structural, industrial, and treated timber products for domestic and export markets.
Located in Limpopo Province, our state-of-the-art sawmill processes softwood logs using advanced optimization technology for maximum recovery.
SAFCOL's lumber business unit focuses on adding value to our raw timber resources through processing at the Timbadola sawmill. The facility employs cutting-edge technology to optimize log recovery, producing a range of sawn timber products that meet both South African and international quality standards.
Our lumber products are SABS-approved and serve the construction, furniture manufacturing, packaging, and general industrial sectors. We are committed to continuous improvement in processing efficiency and product quality.
Structural Timber
Load-bearing beams, trusses, and framing timber for the construction industry. Kiln-dried with moisture content below 12%.
Industrial Timber
Pallets, crating, packaging, and fencing material for industrial and agricultural applications.
Treated Timber
CCA and creosote-treated products for outdoor applications, including utility poles, fencing, and landscaping.
SABS
Approved Products
S5/S7
Structural Grades
<12%
Moisture Content
CCA
Treatment Available
SAFCOL is a major supplier of round logs to the pulp, paper, mining timber, and pole treatment industries across Southern Africa. Our sustainably harvested logs are sourced from FSC-certified plantations and graded to meet exacting customer specifications.
Round log sales represent a significant portion of SAFCOL's revenue. We supply a diverse range of products across three primary genera: Softwood (Pine), Hardwood (Eucalyptus), and Wattle, each serving distinct markets and end uses.
How to Buy from SAFCOL
Pinus patula & Pinus elliottii
Pulp
For paper and packaging manufacturing
Sawlogs
Processed into structural and industrial lumber
Pruned Logs
Premium knot-free timber for high-value applications
Eucalyptus grandis & hybrids
Pulp Fibre
Short-fibre pulp for fine paper production
Mining Timber
Support poles for underground mining operations
Poles & Tree Lengths
Transmission and utility poles, fencing
Sawlogs & Prime Logs
High-quality logs for furniture and flooring
Acacia mearnsii
Tree Lengths
Full-length logs for various industrial uses
Pulp
Bark for tannin extraction, fibre for dissolving pulp
Wattle is primarily grown in KwaZulu-Natal and valued for both its timber and bark extract used in the tanning industry.
SAFCOL sells round logs through an annual bidding process. Prospective buyers are invited to submit bids for timber supply contracts on an annual basis.
Annual Bid Invitation
SAFCOL publishes bid invitations annually in major national newspapers and on the SAFCOL website.
Submit Your Bid
Interested parties complete a formal bid document specifying product type, volume requirements, and delivery preferences.
Evaluation & Award
Bids are evaluated based on price, B-BBEE status, collection capability, and historical performance. Successful bidders are awarded contracts.
Contract & Delivery
Contracts are signed for one year with timber delivered ex-depot or roadside, depending on the agreement.
Sales Contacts
Logs available at Roadside, Standing, and at Stump. Pine uses a Pricelist Auction (Base price); Eucalyptus & Wattle use a Price Quotation System (Reserved price). Volume awards cover twelve-month periods.
Located in Sabie, Mpumalanga. Accredited by the Fibre Processing and Manufacturing SETA.
Learning and development is a strategic priority for SAFCOL. Our interventions support Government skills development initiatives and the implementation of SAFCOL's Corporate Strategy, equipping employees for their roles and developing them for future opportunities.
Training of communities living adjacent to our operations and of land claimants contributes to alleviating poverty and unemployment, with a special focus on Black women and youth from previously disadvantaged communities, as well as people living with disabilities.
10 - 12 months
Theory plus practical training, leading to a full FP&M SETA qualification. Offered in Forestry (Silviculture and Harvesting), Processing and Furniture Making.
24 - 30 months
Millwright, Diesel Mechanic, Electrician, Fitter and Boilermaker trades. Practical training at SAFCOL's Timbadola Sawmill in Levubu, Limpopo.
12 months
Workplace experience for graduates with completed Diplomas or Degrees. Each intern is assigned a mentor and a Work Plan covering their tenure.
Tertiary Studies
Awarded for studies at accredited Institutions of Higher Learning. External bursaries cover registration, tuition, textbooks, accommodation and meals.
Career Growth
Targeted development of managerial and leadership capability across the Company, aligned with employees' Personal Development Plans.
1 - 5 days
Forestry, Processing, Fire Fighting, Health & Safety, Environmental Awareness and Machine Operation. Also offered to community learners near SAFCOL operations.
Whether you are sourcing raw materials, processed lumber, or exploring partnership opportunities, SAFCOL delivers reliable, sustainable volume backed by responsible plantation management across South Africa and Mozambique.