Freight flow databases and their development have had a checkered history in South Africa. The private and public sectors both accept that such a resource is needed, and numerous attempts have been made to establish one. However, there is no freight flow database that fulfills all needs potential users would have. An overview of the status quo of freight flow databases in South Africa is given. The organizations involved in development of this resource are identified. An understanding of why long-term sustainability of freight flow databases has not been achieved is presented through an exploration of the shortcomings faced by agencies wanting to establish such a resource. The challenges that could affect the success of freight flow databases are presented. It is concluded that the development of freight flow databases has passed its initial stages, and the need for establishment of an all-inclusive database is evident. Nevertheless, agencies involved in freight flow database development have been negatively affected by increased competition for fewer resources. Sustainable development, therefore, will require innovative approaches for establishing freight flow databases, potentially through maximizing the application of information technology.