Category Archives: Smart Logistics

Global seaborne trade is in a period of redefinition. Shipping alliances, which for years have been key to ensuring operational efficiency and international coverage, are changing in the face of strategic fragmentation and trade tensions.

At the same time, the tariffs imposed by the United States are introducing a factor of instability that may alter the balance of maritime transport achieved in recent decades. In this context, Smart Logistics, an international logistics operator, is closely monitoring these changes and analysing their impact on the sector in order to adapt to the new dynamics of global trade.

New maritime alliances

Maritime alliances are essential to ensure global connectivity, optimise cargo volumes and ensure economies of scale. In 2025, that model is changing. The dissolution of the historic 2M alliance has given way to new partnerships more focused on operational efficiency and sustainability.

One example is the Gemini Cooperation (a joint venture between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd), which operates almost 300 vessels on key routes between Asia and Europe. Other major alliances, such as the Ocean Alliance, comprising CMA CGM, COSCO Shipping, Evergreen and OOCL and THE Alliance, comprising ONE (Ocean Network Express), HMM and Yang Ming, maintain their leadership by strengthening services especially on the transpacific axis. The Ocean Alliance manages a combined capacity in excess of 4 million TEUs, while THE Alliance exceeds 3 million TEUs, enabling them to sustain regular frequencies and global coverage in an increasingly competitive market.

These clusters allow infrastructure sharing, cost reduction and wider route coverage without the need for very large individual fleets. However, their structure must also adapt to a stricter legal environment, such as the end of the European CBER framework, which regulated these collaborations with certain exemptions.

Tariffs: risk to shipping stability

As shipping lines redraw their alliances, new challenges emerge on the political and trade front. The US has implemented high tariffs on goods from around the world. This tariff policy, which affects a wide range of goods from manufactured goods to raw materials, is putting significant economic pressure on the global logistics industry. According to experts, these tariffs could represent a cost overrun of up to $20 billion per year for the industry.

These trade barriers not only make shipments more expensive, but also chill possible agreements between companies in Asia, Europe or America, alter routes and cargoes, and push up freight rates. Political decisions that force shipping lines and logistics operators to redefine strategies in the short and medium term.

Last mile logistics, which encompasses the final leg in the delivery of products to the consumer, has become an essential component in today’s supply chain. The growing demand for fast and efficient deliveries, coupled with traffic restrictions and the decarbonisation of transport, has prompted companies to look for innovative solutions to optimise this process.

In this context, Smart Logistics distinguishes itself by offering a personalised service, a global network of agents and tailor-made solutions for the last mile. As a leading logistics operator in emerging markets, the company works to ensure that every link in the supply chain is efficiently fulfilled, guaranteeing optimal shipment management and a service tailored to each customer’s needs.

Traceability: key to efficiency and safety

The implementation of advanced traceability systems is essential to improve efficiency and safety in last mile logistics. Through innovative technology, companies can monitor the movement of goods and vehicles in real time, optimising delivery times, reducing costs and ensuring greater control over every stage of the logistics process.

In addition, the automation and digitisation of these systems provide greater visibility in the supply chain, facilitating the detection of possible incidents and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.

Challenges in urban environments

Last mile distribution in urban areas faces multiple challenges:

– Congestion and urban restrictions: population growth and urban sprawl have increased traffic congestion. Many cities have implemented low-emission zones and time restrictions for freight vehicles, sometimes hindering deliveries.

– Operational costs: The last mile can account for 40% to 53% of the total shipping price. Factors such as fragmented deliveries, driver shortages and failed attempts contribute to this high percentage.

– Consumer demands: Today’s customers expect fast and flexible deliveries, forcing companies to optimise processes without increasing costs.

– Sustainability and emissions reduction: Stricter environmental regulations are driving companies to adopt sustainable fleets, such as electric vehicles or multimodal transport solutions.

To face these challenges, solutions such as urban micro-hubs, the use of electric vehicles and cargo bikes, route optimisation through artificial intelligence and collaborative delivery models are being implemented. These strategies aim to improve efficiency and minimise the environmental impact of last mile distribution.

On the road to a more sustainable future, the transport and logistics sector is facing regulatory changes that will define its operations. Various initiatives and projects from 2025 onwards will play a leading role in reducing emissions and integrating clean technologies.

In this sense, logistics companies have a key role to play in this decarbonisation of the sector. Smart Logistics, a logistics operator integrated in the logistics division of Alonso Group, applies measures to improve operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact, such as route optimisation and intermodality. The integration of these sustainable practices contributes to more environmentally responsible logistics within a comprehensive approach to solutions.

Some of the main measures that will change the logistics landscape in the coming years:

1. Implementation of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation

From 1 January 2025, the FuelEU Maritime Regulation has entered into force, obliging ships over 5,000 tonnes to progressively reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity of the fuels used. An initial target of 2% is set for 2025, with a gradual reduction to 80% by 2050. This legislation will encourage the use of cleaner fuels and investment in sustainable propulsion technologies.

2. Entry into force of the EU ETS (EU ETS)

In turn, since 2024, shipping has been included in the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS), which obliges shipping companies to pay for their CO₂ emissions. During 2025, this scheme will apply to 70% of emissions from journeys between the EU and third countries, with full coverage expected by 2026. This measure aims to accelerate the decarbonisation of maritime transport.

3. Increase of the Maximum Authorised Mass (MMA) to 44 tonnes

For land transport, the new regulation allows for an increase in the Maximum Authorised Mass (MMA) to 44 tonnes, thus optimising logistical efficiency. With trucks capable of carrying more cargo in a single trip, a reduction in emissions per tonne transported is expected, a move in favour of sustainability on the road.

4. Rail as a tool for decarbonisation

Rail transport is consolidating its position as the most sustainable alternative for reducing emissions in the logistics sector. The European Commission continues to promote its use to decongest roads and reduce the carbon footprint. By 2025, an increase in investment in rail infrastructure and intermodality is expected, facilitating the combination of different modes of transport with lower emissions.

5. Electrification of transport and use of renewable energies

Finally, the electrification of transport is advancing with new regulations promoting the use of electric vehicles, biofuels and green hydrogen. In addition, the expansion of charging infrastructures and the obligation to reduce emissions from logistics fleets are driving an accelerated transition to cleaner energy sources.

As regulations become more demanding and technologies more accessible, the ability of companies to adapt will be critical to remain competitive. The logistics of the future will not only be measured by its economic efficiency, but also by its commitment to sustainability, setting a new standard for global industry.

With the recent change of government in the United States, some protectionist policies have resurfaced, which could change the landscape of international trade relations. With the reactivation of tariffs and trade barriers, the US seeks to protect its domestic industry, but these decisions have global repercussions that could affect both supply chains and key trade routes around the world.

Impact on the global supply chain

One of the most immediate potential consequences of protectionism would be higher operating costs for businesses that rely on imports. New tariffs could make foreign products more expensive, decreasing the competitiveness of firms and possibly increasing the prices of goods for consumers.

For international companies operating global supply chains, it would imply the need to reconfigure their sourcing and distribution strategies. This could include sourcing new suppliers or relocating factories, which would add complexity to logistics management. In addition, these changes could extend lead times and increase uncertainty in production forecasts.

In the case of Smart Logistics, a forwarding company that operates internationally, its extensive experience in the logistics sector and its ability to adapt to changes in trade policies will enable it to minimise the impact of the new tariffs. Moreover, as part of Alonso Group, a leading international holding company, it has solid operational and strategic backing.

The Panama Canal: a new conflict on the horizon?

One of the main arteries of international maritime trade, the Panama Canal, could also play a role in new US policies. The new presidency has expressed its intention to ‘take it back’, which could alter the flow of trade and generate international tensions.

High tariffs and potential disputes over control of the canal could affect the volume of trade, increasing costs and disrupting global supply chains. A situation that would force logistics players to adapt their routes and strategies. China and the EU, in particular, would be pushed to explore alternative routes and reconfigure their supply chains to remain competitive.

The Christmas season represents a significant challenge for the logistics sector, with a considerable increase in the demand for shipments and the need for fast and efficient deliveries. In this context, airfreight is becoming an essential tool to ensure that products reach their destinations on time, especially in a globalised market with long distances and increasingly demanding consumer expectations.

Increased demand

During this Christmas campaign, logistics and transport companies are handling around 115 million shipments, from the beginning of Black Friday until the end of Christmas, which represents an increase of 7.1% over the previous year, according to the latest data from the sector. This increase is mainly due to the boom in e-commerce and seasonal promotions.

Air freight, one of the key services of Smart Logistics, an IATA-certified integrated logistics operator, stands out for its ability to connect markets in record time, which is crucial for handling urgent goods such as electronic devices, toys or luxury goods. Its speed and reliability make it an indispensable ally during this period of high demand.

Advantages of air transport in Christmas logistics

The speed of airfreight is especially valuable for fast-moving or seasonal products, such as Christmas gifts, which require timely delivery to meet consumer expectations. It is also ideal for shipping high-value goods, which require careful handling and short delivery times.

Airfreight also allows companies to maintain optimal inventory levels and avoid excesses or shortages that may affect product availability during peak season. This mode facilitates an agile response to market fluctuations and adapts quickly to changes in demand and customer satisfaction.

Main challenges and issues

Despite its advantages, air freight faces challenges during the Christmas season, such as route saturation and the need for efficient coordination between the different actors in the supply chain. Strategic planning and proactive management is essential to mitigate potential delays and ensure the integrity of goods.

That’s why Smart Logistics guarantees efficient air shipments during the Christmas season. With expertise and advanced technology, the company optimises air transport processes and coordinates with airlines and customs to minimise delays and ensure timely and safe deliveries.