more than a century of history
HISTORY OF LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION
Resources and Know How of the staff have always been available to the users, to earn their trust shipment after shipment, day after day, year after year, for over 100 years.
Established relationships with customers and the constant acquisition of new ones increase the number of transports in a continuous cycle of growth and renewal.
It was 1920 when the company founded by Raffaele Fradelloni, with the cooperation of his brother Alessandro, began its operations, which continued over the years, first with his son Zizi and then with Vittorio. The company is currently run by his son Vittorio assisted by his sons Raffaele and Riccardo.
1922 | Raffaele Fradelloni begins his business
In Cagliari, Raffaele Fradelloni launches his entrepreneurial journey in the field of loading, unloading, and horse-drawn transport. Yes, at the time, goods were moved using carts pulled by horses—mainly cargo destined for or arriving from the Port of Cagliari.
1950 | From horses to trucks
Horses are replaced by trucks—first small motor vehicles, later full-size lorries and articulated trucks. The horsepower may have changed, but the dedication remained unchanged. Raffaele’s son Zizi joins the business, making a crucial contribution to Fradelloni’s growth in both the transport and port logistics sectors.
1965 | Vittorio joins the company
After earning a degree in Economics and Business, Vittorio—now President and CEO—joins the family business, continuing its legacy and leading it toward new horizons.
1968 | First ferry routes to mainland Italy
Fradelloni pioneers RO-RO ferry connections between Sardinia and the mainland—an innovation that changes everything. Goods, once loaded onto sailing ships and small vessels, are now moved directly by road and onto ferries, eliminating any need for intermediate handling. With a modest fleet, Fradelloni begins shipping on the Cagliari–Genoa line.
1988 | Authorized to transport steel mill waste by sea
Fradelloni becomes one of the first companies in Sardinia and Italy to handle waste transport, obtaining permits not only in Sardinia but also in Lombardy, Veneto, Piedmont, Liguria, and Tuscany. It also secures authorization from the Ministry of the Merchant Navy to carry steel mill fumes by sea using tipping semi-trailers.
1991 | Intermodal transport with swap bodies
Fradelloni introduces its first swap bodies, enabling seamless intermodal transport across road, sea, and rail routes.
1995 | Acquisition of Vespa Maritime Agency
With the acquisition of the historic Vespa Maritime Agency—one of Sardinia’s most respected shipping companies—Fradelloni expands its reach. Vespa is later fully integrated into the company.
2005 | Greater environmental responsibility
Fradelloni acquires its first Bulk Containers, allowing for safer, more sustainable maritime transport of bulk hazardous goods and waste.
2013 | A solid company in logistics and transport
Six years after acquiring land in the Porto Canale area of Cagliari, Fradelloni completes construction of its new headquarters. Since August of that year, all administrative, operational, and legal offices have been moved to the new facility.
2022 | 100 years of history
In 2022, Fradelloni proudly celebrated its centennial—a hundred years of experience, passion, and innovation that marked a journey of continuous growth. Deeply rooted in its homeland, the company looks to the future with the same tireless commitment.
2024 | Sustainable transport
2024 marks a milestone: Fradelloni completes the full transition of its fleet from diesel to HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil). This strategic choice reflects our strong commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. By using renewable fuel, we significantly cut CO₂ emissions—moving toward a cleaner future for logistics and the communities we serve.