Category Archives: Logística Internacional

An unprecedented period of expansion. This is what air freight is experiencing in Spain. As the global economy demands greater speed and efficiency in the shipment of goods, Spanish airports, in particular Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas airport, have registered record figures in cargo handling. This growth not only underlines the importance of this sector in the national economy, but also the crucial role of logistics companies such as Smart Logistics in the evolution of this transport.

Madrid-Barajas, air cargo hub

In recent years, air freight transport in Spain has experienced a significant increase. During 2023, Spanish airports handled more than one million tonnes of freight, 7.9% more than in 2022, reaching historic figures. This growth has continued in 2024, with Madrid-Barajas leading the sector. In July of this year, this airport registered 64,229 tonnes of freight, reaffirming its position as the main cargo hub in Spain.

This increase in freight traffic not only reflects the post-pandemic economic recovery, but also the growing demand for fast and efficient logistics services in an increasingly globalised world. The privileged location and its capacity to handle large volumes of goods have enabled the Madrid-Barajas precinct to act as a strategic link between Latin America, Europe and Asia. It has thus consolidated its position as a key point on international cargo routes.

Smart Logistics: innovation and efficiency in air transport

In this context of expansion, Smart Logistics, an integrated logistics operator that forms part of Alonso Group‘s logistics division, offers a full range of services including air freight, warehousing and distribution. Its focus on technological innovation and the customisation of its services has enabled it to adapt to the specific needs of its customers, guaranteeing an efficient and high quality service.

Smart Logistics has also capitalised on the growth of airfreight in Spain with solutions that optimise every aspect of the logistics process. In addition, its strong presence in the Latin American market has reinforced its capacity to manage transatlantic operations efficiently, facilitating the constant flow of goods between the two continents. The company has developed a large infrastructure that allows it to operate in an agile and efficient manner, even in times of high demand such as those currently being experienced in the sector.

Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) transport has revolutionised cargo logistics, providing an efficient and safe method for handling various types of large-volume goods. This system is characterised by the ability to load and unload roll-on/roll-off goods directly onto the ship, which optimises transport times and reduces transport costs.

Smart Logistics, an integrated logistics operator, specialises in offering advanced solutions in this field, maximising the efficiency, safety and profitability of maritime transport.

What is Ro-Ro transport?

Ro-Ro transport refers to the practice of loading and unloading rolling goods (such as trailers, heavy machinery and other wheeled equipment) directly onto a specialised vessel -car carrier or ‘ro-ro ships’-. In order to carry out these functions, there are usually ramps built into the ship or fixed on land that will allow the goods to be loaded (Roll On) and unloaded (Roll Off) from the port. This method eliminates the need for cranes and heavy loading equipment, allowing for a faster and more efficient operation.

Ro-Ro transport offers numerous benefits that make it attractive for various industrial sectors:

• Time efficiency: the ability to roll cargoes directly on and off the ship significantly reduces loading and unloading times.
• Cost reduction: by not requiring specialised loading equipment and cranes, the final cost of operating resources and labour is reduced.
• Safety: minimises the risk of cargo damage, as items are handled in a more direct and controlled manner.
• Flexibility: suitable for a wide range of rolling loads, from trailers and heavy machinery to cars, trucks and specialised equipment.

An innovative and efficient company

Smart Logistics has adapted its services to the advantages of Ro-Ro transport, positioning itself as a company specialising in efficient logistics solutions. With a modern and highly qualified fleet, Smart Logistics guarantees the safe and punctual transport of various types of rolling goods to the nearest ports.

In addition, the operator offers a variety of services tailored to the needs of its customers:

• International transport: global connections that ensure on-time delivery anywhere in the world.
• Customised solutions: tailoring its services to customer specifications, including the transport of specialised machinery and large equipment.
• Advanced technology: use of state-of-the-art tracking and management systems to monitor cargo status in real time.

The company has successfully managed complex Ro-Ro transport projects, excelling in sectors such as heavy industry. In its latest job, the company has coordinated the delivery of heavy machinery, transported in a truck adapted for large sizes and weights, to the port of Barcelona in the direction of the Middle East. A great example of its efficiency and reliability in international logistics.

The process of nearshoring is currently gaining importance in the international logistics sector. Its function involves the relocation of business activity to closer regions in order to be closer to target markets. According to several reports, one of the countries with the highest demand for production capacity is Mexico, placing it at the centre of the global supply chain.

In this sense, Smart Logistics, a company specialising in integrated logistics, is an effective partner in import and export traffic with Mexico. Its presence in various parts of the country under the Alonso Forwarding Mexico brand not only exemplifies the company’s interest and confidence in the country’s logistics potential, but also highlights the strategic importance of this location for the global supply chain.

A growing logistics hub

Mexico is currently one of the most promising economies in the Americas and has a logistics sector that is constantly evolving. Its geography offers a notable strategic advantage in the context of nearshoring. As a neighbour of the United States, one of the world’s leading economic powers, Mexico is an attractive option for companies wishing to maintain access to the US market. It also has a cost-competitive labour force compared to other regions, making it a favourable destination for foreign investment.

The country has implemented significant measures such as the use of advanced technologies and the development of projects to enhance logistics. The improvement of transport systems and the modernisation of its ports and airports have strengthened the country’s capacity to efficiently handle international trade.

Mexico a beneficiary of the US-China trade war

The so-called trade war between China and the United States has generated a series of challenges for companies, especially in terms of supply chains. Given this situation, Mexico has emerged as a strategic alternative for companies seeking to diversify their operations and reduce their exposure to trade tensions between the two great powers.

Last year, the United States imported more goods and services from Mexico than from any other country in the world, displacing China as its top supplier, according to data released by the US Census Bureau. Mexican exports totalled $475.606 billion last year, a jump of 4.6% compared to 2022. For its part, China sold 20 per cent less to the United States than in the previous year. Its exports amounted to 427,229 dollars. A milestone in the history of the American country.

The crisis in the Red Sea has plunged the maritime sector into deep uncertainty, threatening to unbalance global trade and generate worldwide economic consequences. With more than 50 attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in recent weeks, the world’s major shipping lines have been forced to halt their operations in this channel.

The Red Sea is a strategic route connecting Europe, Asia and Africa, and the ongoing siege has created a critical situation for international trade. The immediate impact is reflected in a significant delay in the arrival of essential supplies for various industries, generating widespread fears of possible price increases globally.

In this context, Smart Logistics, as a logistics operator with global coverage, keeps abreast of the current situation and is in constant communication with its customers to keep them informed. The aim is to offer them efficient and secure logistics solutions.

The alternative route

One of the most notable responses to this crisis has been the rerouting of vessels that previously transited the Suez Canal. Unable to guarantee safety in the Red Sea, ships are now forced to round Africa via the Cape of Good Hope in the south of the continent. This change means an increase in crossing times of between 12 and 20 days, as well as an increase in the distance travelled from 18,000 to 25,000 kilometres.

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The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has confirmed that at least 18 shipping lines have opted to divert their ships around the Cape of Good Hope to avoid persistent attacks in the Red Sea. This increase in distance and travel time not only affects the operating costs of shipping lines, but also has a direct impact on logistical efficiency and the timely delivery of goods.

Supply shortages

The Association of Manufacturers and Distributors (AECOC) has also expressed its concern about the lack of supply of consumer products. A situation that could worsen with the arrival of the Chinese New Year on 10 February.

Spain imports 100 billion euros worth of key Asian products annually, such as food, textiles and fashion, hardware and DIY, and technology goods. Delays in delivery time would have a serious impact on the country’s economy.

The forwarder company Smart Logistics is an effective ally in import and export traffic with Mexico. This was confirmed during the training day held at the Consulate of the North American country in Barcelona, where the Consul Claudia Pavlovich welcomed the participants. The meeting was attended by Spanish companies with large commercial exchanges with Mexico, who were able to share experiences and knowledge regarding traffic on this route.

The conference, which was also attended by representatives from the port of Barcelona, served to discuss the main operational processes required from both Mexico and Spain. The subject of customs processes and documentation was also discussed. In summary, the importance of having practical and efficient information as a first step to start successful operations in the medium and long term was noted.

One of the biggest economies in Latin America

Antonio Durán, Managing Director of Smart Logistics, highlighted during his speech that “in a constantly evolving international trade scenario, Smart Logistics is developing and presenting itself as an integral partner, as a strategic partner, for companies that want to grow in different international markets, offering tailor-made logistics solutions”.

Mexico, with a population of 127 million people, ranks 14th in the ranking of world economies, is the leading exporter in Latin America (42% of the region’s total) and holds fifth place in terms of territorial extension on the American continent. At present, 1,697 Catalan companies export constantly to Mexico. By sector, vehicles, machinery, perfumery and cosmetics stand out. They represent 35.7% of Spain’s total exports to the country. As for imports, the chapters on vehicles, organic chemical products and fish stand out.

The US-China trade conflict is a win-win situation for the country

The economic war between the US and China, especially since COVID-19, is benefiting Mexico in terms of trade and investment. In this scenario, the country is emerging as an attractive destination thanks to its geographical proximity to the US market and its well-established manufacturing infrastructure. This trend, as evidenced during the conference, is generating a greater demand for production capacity in the Latin American country (nearshoring).

In the coming years, according to data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Mexico’s development will be concentrated precisely on exports of goods and services.