Renewed Efficiency Network certification for Port of Barcelona
Seal of approval certifies quality of service at Spanish sea freight hub.
Following a comprehensive audit, the Spanish subsidiary of a. hartrodt successfully renewed its Efficiency Network certification for the Mediterranean Port of Barcelona this month. “This seal of approval confirms our commitment to providing reliable, transparent, and efficient service at the highest level of quality,” says Lorena Figaro, Managing Director at a. hartrodt España. The network brings together over 100 companies and is supported by administrations. According to the Port of Barcelona, which introduced the label in 2010, certified logistics chains operate 15 percent more reliably. “This is added value for our customers,” emphasizes Lorena Figaro.
LCL and FCL: a. hartrodt España's main business area
Barcelona handles goods worth 113,343 million euros annually, which accounts for nearly a quarter of Spain’s maritime trade. The majority of a. hartrodt España’s import and export traffic is moved through this hub. “The port is essential for our daily operations and for our Spanish customers’ international connectivity,” says Lorena Figaro. Less-than-container loads (LCL) and full container loads (FCL) are a key business segment.
Growth markets: Chile, Colombia, South Africa, Mediterranean region
According to the Managing Director, customers benefit from the fact that “we offer both regular volume business on traditional trade lanes and tailor-made solutions for niche markets.” She mentions Chile, Colombia, South Africa, and the Mediterranean region as growth markets, while Oceania and China remain key trade lanes. The Efficiency Network certification means time savings for customers. For example, the dispatch process takes less than eight hours after documentary inspection and 17 hours after a physical inspection. Exporters can access the bill of lading no later than ten business hours after the ship’s departure.
To maintain the certification, a. hartrodt España must also meet strict standards in its communications with customers. “This recognition from the Port of Barcelona shows that our commitment to quality and reliable processes is paying off,” says Lorena Figaro.