With 50 years in the freight transport business, Fletes Hesa (member of the Top 100 of Autotransporte® ) is evolving its strategy and operation , diversifying into different sectors and adopting new technologies , according to Humberto Torio, its commercial director, who told T21 about the current challenges and initiatives to consolidate its leadership in the sector.
Since its inception in 1975, Fletes Hesa has established itself in the transport of steel and paper . However, market dynamics and the need for growth led the company to expand into other segments.
“We no longer only transport steel and paper, we also unload ships in the port area with different materials,” said Torio.
In recent years, the company has expanded its focus on the transportation of hazardous materials , including cryogenic products and steel waste. It has also strengthened its presence in the transportation of containerized cargo and general cargo. By 2024, it has also expanded its involvement in the beverage sector and the cement industry .
Currently, Fletes Hesa has a fleet of 286 tractor trucks , mostly composed of Freightliner and Scania units , as well as approximately 600 trailers of various types , including platforms, dump equipment, pressurized trailers and units for transporting industrial gases.
The company also strengthened its strategic alliances with carriers to expand its operational capacity without committing to large investments in its own fleet.
Security is a central aspect in the operation of Fletes Hesa. A distinctive element is the implementation of Motum (Tecnomotum) , a tracking and telemetry system developed internally 22 years ago under the initiative of Edgar Chahín, CEO of Fletes Hesa.
“It was initially designed to monitor unit performance, but over time it has evolved to include safety features,” Torio explained.
The system can identify mechanical failures in real time , record driver behavior and, in the event of attempted theft, activate protection mechanisms such as remote shutdown of the truck. This technology has been adopted by Freightliner, which now installs it in its units at the factory.
The transport sector faces a common challenge: the shortage of trained operators . Fletes Hesa responded by creating its own driver training school .
“Young people can begin their training from the age of 18 and, depending on their performance, in one or two years they are ready to operate cargo units,” Torio said.
This strategy allowed the company to nurture its workforce with talent trained under its standards, minimizing the impact of labor turnover in the industry.
In addition, Hesa has participated for 15 years in the National Road Safety Award , obtaining various recognitions for both the company and its operators.
“We have drivers who have achieved the highest level of certification for their safety performance,” Torio said.
As for its projection, the company aims to double its fleet in the next three years. “By 2027 , we hope to have 600 units , always guaranteeing the quality of the service,” said the Commercial Director.
Despite the challenges of the logistics environment, Fletes Hesa is betting on diversification, technology and training to consolidate its position in the market. Adaptability remains a key factor in facing the transformations in the sector.
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