An interview with Andrea Cianfarani, Regional Trade Lane Manager, Greencarrier Consolidators Germany
When Andrea Cianfarani first imagined his career path, shipping and logistics wasn’t on the map. With a background in political science and aspirations to become a diplomat, he was more focused on embassies than export volumes. But one visit to the Port of Hamburg changed everything.
“I was visiting a friend and got to see the port in action – how containers were being handled and managed. I was fascinated,” Andrea recalls.
That moment of curiosity eventually set Andrea on a path that would shape his entire career. After joining the Erasmus Traineeship program and completing his studies, Andrea returned to Hamburg, this time to begin his hands-on journey in the world of consolidation and LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping.
Cultural intelligence at the core
Andrea’s international perspective wasn’t developed in a logistics office – it began in university lecture halls in Sardinia and Poland.
“Studying political science in two very different countries gave me tools to better understand the cultures and backgrounds of the markets I work with today,” he says.
That cultural fluency now serves him daily in his role as Regional Trade Lane Manager, where he navigates complex relationships with partners across the world.
Logistics is a people business
While freight and numbers are part of the job, Andrea believes the real work happens in human connection.
“One of the most important things I’ve learned is that logistics is truly a people business. Building strong relationships with customers and colleagues goes far beyond just negotiating rates.”
To him, success in logistics isn’t transactional – it’s relational. It’s about trust, communication, and shared problem-solving. That belief reflects the culture at Greencarrier, which Andrea describes as flat, respectful, and open.
“If you manage to find a profession that feels less like work and more like building something meaningful, you’re in the right place,” he adds. “For me, logistics is like a giant puzzle, and solving it is what keeps me inspired.”
Inside a Trade Lane Manager’s day
Andrea’s role is multifaceted. He spends his days identifying strategic markets, finding and negotiating with new partners, managing agency agreements, and ensuring the smooth integration of sales and operations across trade lanes.
His key areas of focus – Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia – are not just logistically significant; they are culturally rich and commercially dynamic.
“Thailand and Indonesia are constantly growing. Latin America is especially important for Germany due to the automotive industry. Every region comes with its own rhythm – and that’s what I love.”
Hamburg: The beating heart of European LCL
Operating out of Hamburg puts Andrea and his team at the crossroads of European logistics. But the market is far from stable.
“Right now, the LCL market is extremely dynamic. Global conflicts and shifting political agendas are constantly affecting trade flows. Trends can change from one week to the next,” he explains.
Compared to general freight forwarding, LCL is more volatile. It involves more transactions, more coordination – and a higher level of unpredictability. That’s why agility and strong partnerships are key.
Tailoring solutions, building trust
What sets Greencarrier Consolidators Germany apart? According to Andrea, it’s the ability to listen – and act.
“We tailor our processes to our customers’ needs. We stay flexible, close, and responsive. That’s what makes the difference.”
As the Hamburg office grows – Andrea sees even greater potential. With a young and dynamic team, the company embraces a new generation of logistics professionals who are shaping the way the industry communicates and serves.
Advice for the next generation
For those starting out in logistics, Andrea offers grounded advice:
“Look for a company with a modern culture. Try out different departments – sales, operations – and learn what suits you best. Build a five-year plan and talk to your manager about it. Logistics is fast-paced and challenging, but it’s an incredible learning journey.”
Off the clock – into the deep
When Andrea isn’t negotiating contracts, he’s in the water – literally. Spearfishing is one of his passions, along with surfing.
“I go after barracuda, flounders, lobsters – whatever I can find,” he laughs. “It clears my mind and challenges me in a totally different way.”
Andrea’s journey from the ports of Hamburg to global trade lanes is a reminder that great careers often begin with curiosity – and grow through human connection. In a sector often defined by cargo volumes and transit times, he brings a refreshing focus on what really moves the business forward: relationships, adaptability, and the joy of solving a good puzzle.
