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Introducing the Shared Micro-Depot Network for Last-Mile Logistics
- Source :
- Sustainability, Volume 13, Issue 4, Sustainability, Vol 13, Iss 2067, p 2067 (2021)
- Publication Year :
- 2021
- Publisher :
- Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 2021.
-
Abstract
- Last-mile logistics is both a source and cause of problems in urban areas, especially problems related to traffic congestion, unsustainable delivery modes, and limited parking availability. In this context, multiple sustainable logistics solutions have been proposed. We focus on micro-depots (MDs), which can function as a consolidation center and a collection-and-delivery point for business-to-consumer (B2C) small parcels. This paper presents a new research idea that extends the existing MD solution by introducing the concept of a shared MD network with parcel lockers. Such networks enable multiple logistics service providers (LSPs) and/or business partners to use an MD while minimizing their individual costs and optimizing the use of urban space. We present case studies of such shared MD networks operating in the cities of Helsinki and Helmond. We provide a framework for auxiliary businesses that can exploit the existing MD structure to offer services to the surrounding population. Finally, we define metrics for evaluating the success of shared MD networks while considering social, environmental and economic objectives. The case studies highlight the complexity of implementing such a solution<br />it requires stakeholders’ involvement and collaboration. In particular, deciding on the location for a shared MD network is a critical phase, since local authorities have their own regulations, and residents’ preferences are usually different than LSPs’ ones. Nevertheless, if these challenges are overcome, this sustainable last-mile logistics solution has a promising future.
- Subjects :
- Exploit
micro-depot
Computer science
media_common.quotation_subject
Geography, Planning and Development
Population
sustainable last mile delivery
TJ807-830
Context (language use)
010501 environmental sciences
Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law
TD194-195
01 natural sciences
Renewable energy sources
city logistics
last-mile logistics
Smart city
0502 economics and business
collection-and-delivery points
last mile logistics
sustainable last-mile delivery
GE1-350
education
Function (engineering)
urban logistics
0105 earth and related environmental sciences
media_common
050210 logistics & transportation
education.field_of_study
Environmental effects of industries and plants
shared facilities
Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
05 social sciences
Service provider
Environmental sciences
Traffic congestion
Risk analysis (engineering)
smart city
parcel lockers
Last mile
micro depot
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 20711050
- Database :
- OpenAIRE
- Journal :
- Sustainability
- Accession number :
- edsair.doi.dedup.....30a79070e3037b51c2d9772ade72e088
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.3390/su13042067