Overview

Transportation in Colombia is classified based on its geographical coverage (rural, urban or national transportation services) and type of users (passengers or cargo.) Different types of cargo transport are available depending on the number of shipment origins and destinations: massive cargo, semi-massive cargo, courier delivery, among others, depending on the level of customization of operations.

The following stakeholders are included in the transportation business model in Colombia: Cargo generators are companies or organizations requiring cargo mobilization; transportation companies are intermediaries offering the service with all government qualifications and permits; and owners/drivers of transport vehicles, the latter affiliate their vehicles to different transportation companies. Some transportation companies also own a large fleet, although not many in the country, operating with both types of fleets.

On average, transportation service is provided using 17.6% of the companies’ own fleet while 83.4% is outsourced, involving small vehicle owners that work with drivers who do not have a direct subordinate relationship with the transportation company, thus affecting service quality.

An oversupply of vehicles is found in this sector due to two possible variables: firstly, vehicle fleet lifespan in Colombia exceeds 15 years on average and secondly, vehicle imports increased during the oil boom, especially in 2013 and 2015.

In addition, commerce has driven the increase in cargo mobilization. Based on the information provided by the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE), this indicator increased by 5% annually in real terms between December 2018 and December 2019, which helped increase national cargo mobilization by 66% during this period.

The National Government, through the Ministry of Transport, regulates this sector, also supervised by the Superintendence of Transport. Decree 173 of 2001 provides the regulations for road cargo transportation services. (www.mintransporte.gov.co)

 Many transportation companies and associations are currently implementing mechanisms to interpret the reality of the transportation industry and look after their commercial interests. Some of them are below: The National Association of Road Freight Transportation Companies (ASECARGA), the Colombian Truckers Association (ACC), the Colombian Freight Transport Federation (COLFECAR) and the Colombian Vehicle Association (ANDEMOS).

Here are some of the companies providing freight transportation services in Colombia:

Coltanques S.A.S.

The company provides warehousing and land freight transportation at national and international level. It has implemented and maintained an Integrated Management Policy, highlighting its commitment to meet the needs and expectations of its stakeholders.

Forward S.A.S. 

The company provides comprehensive land freight transportation solutions according to the needs of its clients for product mobilization at national and international level.

Cotrasur

The cooperative offers massive cargo transport operating at national and international level.

Transmultimac

The company offers massive cargo transportation, container transport, semi-massive cargo transport, special urban transportation and projects.

Disclaimer: Provider registration shall not imply any business relationship between the provider and WFP/Logistics Cluster, which shall be solely used as a determinant of services and capabilities. Please note, WFP/Logistics Cluster shall maintain impartiality at all times and not be in a position to endorse any comments on the suitability of any company as a reputable service provider.