Tag Archive: LAST MILE DELIVERY

  1. Positive results of New York’s microhub project

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    Source: Trucking Info Image source: NYC DOT

    Just over a year into New York’s three-year microhub pilot project, the city reports that the local delivery hubs have eliminated over 3,000 truck trips, and there has been a positive response from the trucking industry, last-mile delivery operators and environmental advocates alike.

    The pilot project initially installed three microhubs at locations in the city’s Upper West Side in April 2025, and two new locations have now been added in the financial district, and Upper East Side. The hubs enable truck operators to transfer deliveries to sustainable transport options such as cargo bikes for the last leg of the delivery journey.

    The New York project sees each microhub assigned exclusively to a single delivery partner, with locations selected on the basis of compatible land use, and proximity to high-density areas, truck routes, bike lanes and transit.

    The project sits alongside the city’s efforts to substantially boost the sustainable transport mode share, last year reported at 57%.

    First-year results

    Figures from the pilot’s first year show that 110 packages a day were delivered via cargo bike, replacing around three truck miles (4.8 km) of travel. Handcarts were also used to deliver around 860 packages a day, which replaced 1.5 miles (2.4 km) of truck travel. City officials state that the pilot has reduced an estimated nine grams of air pollution.

    NYC Department of Transport (DOT) Commissioner, Mike Flynn, spoke of the positive impact. “When big delivery trucks deliver individual packages on local streets, we can see pedestrian crosswalks and travel lanes getting blocked, and a variety of other unsafe challenges. Shifting these deliveries onto handcarts, e-bikes, and other smaller delivery options is a win for our environment, street safety, and our neighborhoods.”

    Reactions from the delivery sector

    The Trucking Association of New York views the microhub pilot positively, with Vice President, Government Affairs, Zach Miller stating, “We’ve supported microhub distribution for years because it offers strong operational alignment for certain segments of last-mile freight and the small businesses that provide these delivery services. We’re pleased to see NYC DOT continue expanding microhubs as part of a broader, holistic freight strategy that includes Blue Highways, off-hour deliveries, package lockers, and a modernized truck route network.”

    The first phase of the project was launched with delivery collaborators in Net Zero Logistics and Amazon.

    Net Zero Logistics CEO, Mark Chiusano, highlighted the various benefits of the project. “By providing dedicated curb space for last-mile transfers to cargo bikes and zero-emission modes of transport (including walking), we can cut truck trips, eliminate double parking, and reduce emissions – all while keeping New York City moving.”

    Beryl Tomay, Vice President, Transportation at Amazon, emphasised the importance of a collaborative approach. “Programs like this show what’s possible when the city and the private sector work together to make urban delivery safer and more sustainable. We look forward to continuing to innovate – including efforts like the growth of our e-cargo bike program – so we’re best able to deliver for New Yorkers.”

    Growth of the scheme

    NYC DOT aims to further expand the pilot project’s geographic and partner reach, and is inviting a broader range of business participation through an application process.

    In the period up to 2055, freight volumes in the city are projected to grow by 46%, and the proliferation of trucks already poses significant challenges. The city states that 44,000 trucks cross critical chokepoints on a daily basis, leading to congestion and delays that cost the city an estimated $20 billion (€17.45 billion) annually in lost productivity, rising maintenance requirements, and environmental impact.

    Other delivery solutions

    The pilot project commenced just over a year after NYC DOT authorised the use of e-cargo bikes on city streets; in the intervening period, commercial cargo bike use for delivery has grown at least seven-fold.

    Additional measures include the Blue Highways program, which aims to utilise marine infrastructure to shift delivery from road to waterways, and an Off-hour Delivery program, which incentivises the delivery of goods during off-peak hours between 7pm and 6am.

  2. Businesses invited to Bristol cargo bike event

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    Source: BikeBiz Image credit: Pedal Collective

    A free business-focused cargo bike event is scheduled for 2 July in Bristol, UK, organised by Bristol Business Improvement District (BID) and Bristol City Council. Those in the wider cargo bike ecosystem, including manufacturers, vendors and courier companies, are invited to take part.

    The event will include the opportunity to view various types of cargo bikes, hear about support from Bristol City Council, summaries of financial offers, and the option to visit the city’s new consolidation hub, which is the first of three planned. The event’s aim is to demonstrate both the operational and environmental benefits of cargo bikes, and act as an effective connection point for businesses with suppliers and operators.

    Councillor Ed Plowden, Chair of the council’s Transport and Connectivity Committee, said, “We have a range of support available to enable businesses to make and receive deliveries in the cleanest and greenest way possible, without sacrificing profits. Businesses and organisations in Bristol are beating traffic and saving fuel through cargo bikes, and our new freight consolidation hubs will increase these benefits further. The event is a great opportunity to hear first-hand from businesses using cargo bikes and learn about the support available to help you transition from van to bike.”

    A group ride through the city centre will start the event day, with businesses that currently use cargo bikes invited to take part to showcase their role in supporting clean and sustainable logistics. In the afternoon, a business-focused session, Cargo Bikes for Business: The Opportunity for Bristol, will explore how organisations of varying sizes are reducing costs, improving efficiency and meet sustainable transport goals through the use of cargo bikes. Confirmed exhibitors include LEVA-EU member Minimal.

    The event is part of Bristol BID’s Cargo Bikes for Business programme, which aims to help organisations adopt more sustainable ways of delivering goods and services around the city. Participating businesses have been able to access subsidies which support cargo bike adoption, as well as free consultancy on integrating cargo bikes into supply chains.

    Tom Swithinbank, Senior Project Manager at Bristol BID, said, “Since launching Cargo Bikes for Business, we’ve seen growing interest from organisations looking for practical ways to reduce emissions while maintaining efficient and cost-effective operations. Businesses across Bristol are already demonstrating how cargo bikes can support everything from deliveries and logistics to day-to-day services, and we’re keen to help even more organisations explore the opportunities available. This double event line up is an opportunity to celebrate the businesses already leading the way, share practical insights and showcase how cargo bikes can help organisations operate more sustainably while supporting a cleaner, less congested city.”

    Businesses interested in participating in the event can reserve their spot here.

  3. ALICE book on urban logistics transformation published

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    Source: ALICE

    The Alliance for Logistics Innovation through Collaboration in Europe (ALICE) has published a new book, Urban Logistics Transformation: E-Commerce and Sustainable Circular Economy Approaches, which presents leading research and practical insights into the transformation of last-mile delivery in urban environments.

    The publication features 22 chapters with contributions from numerous ALICE members, and places the topic of urban logistics at the intersection of sustainability, digitalisation and circular-economy principles. The pressures placed on urban logistics systems by rapid changes in factors such as urbanisation, e-commerce and consumer expectations are explored in detail, alongside examinations of real-world solutions including cargo bikes, micro-hubs and more.

    The book seeks to bridge the gap between research and practice, consolidating latest knowledge with practical solutions, case studies and policy perspectives in a way designed to support efficient and sustainable last-mile logistics.

    The growing importance of circularity in logistics is also explored, taking in factors such as reusable packaging, producer responsibility schemes, and the integrated forward and reverse flow of goods.

    The book aims to provide a comprehensive roadmap for the transformation of urban logistics systems, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, alongside improved integration of infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and digital solutions.

  4. Fulpra Quatro supporting business delivery solutions

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    Source: ZELO BIKE Image credit: ZELO BIKE

    As the LEVA-EU member’s UK partner, ZELO BIKE announced plans to provide ongoing technical support and demonstration facilities for the brand, it highlighted the quad e-cargo bike as an advanced solution for the demands of daily businesses.

    Fulpra’s Quatro quad e-cargo bike recently visited ZELO BIKE at its White City workshop, and impressed the company with its purpose-built design for urban last-mile delivery:

    • Load capacity of 350 kg, sufficient to replace a full van load
    • 1 metre wide, making it able to fit cycling lanes, and maneuver through streets that vans can’t access
    • Full canopy weather protection as standard, supporting riders to work all year round
    • Equipped with keyless entry and lockable slide doors, enabling high-frequency stops

    As it is providing ongoing technical support and demonstration on behalf of Fulpra, it invites businesses exploring electric cargo bike solutions to arrange a visit to its White City store by contacting whitecity@zelobike.co.uk.

  5. Positive results from cargo bike delivery trial

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    Source: GREENFLEET

    Cross River Partnership (CRP) has completed a freight trial in collaboration with sustainable last-mile courier Delivery Mates, operating beneath London’s Waterloo Station. Together they have successfully demonstrated how sustainable logistics solutions can significantly reduce carbon emissions, ease congestion and improve air quality across the UK capital.

    CRP’s low-emission deliveries pilot was based at the Waterloo Freight Hub, located in Arch 242A under London’s Waterloo Station. The four-month trial ran from 25 March to 23 July 2025 and involved Delivery Mates receiving, sorting and dispatching parcels using electrically assisted cargo bikes.

    Measurable environmental and congestion benefits

    During the trial, Delivery Mates’ cargo bikes travelled more than 4,600 kilometres and delivered over 20,000 parcels to residents and businesses across London. By shifting deliveries from conventional vans to cargo bikes, it is estimated that the project generated carbon savings of more than 2,500 kilograms of CO₂, while also helping to reduce road congestion in central London.

    CRP confirmed that the transition to low-emission deliveries was achieved without any additional cost to customers.

    Repurposing underused rail infrastructure

    The project highlighted the potential for underused railway infrastructure to support cleaner urban freight. Through the creative reuse and retrofitting of an existing Network Rail and Department for Transport (DfT) asset, the trial demonstrated how railway arches could play a meaningful role in London’s transition to greener logistics.

    Long-term potential of the Waterloo Freight Hub

    Beyond its immediate environmental impact, the trial showcased the longer-term potential of the site. CRP said the space could be developed into a fully operational Multi-Modal Waterloo Freight Hub, with inbound deliveries arriving by rail, river and road, with a range of low-emission vehicles completing last-mile distribution.

    Findings and future recommendations

    A forthcoming report will set out the results of the pilot, including its environmental benefits, operational performance and key lessons learned. It will also chart the project’s journey from initial concept in 2022 to delivery in 2025, underlining the importance of strong coordination to avoid missed opportunities and maximise economic, community and environmental outcomes.

    Partnership working and next steps

    The pilot was delivered through collaboration between Cross River Partnership, Network Rail, the London Borough of Lambeth, the Department for Transport and London and Continental Railways (LCR).

    To fully realise the site’s potential, CRP is now encouraging the Department for Transport to take further action. Its recommendations include leading a flexible programme for the next phase of the hub’s development, providing coordination funding to support expanded use of the Waterloo undercroft, and commissioning CRP to progress rail freight deliveries directly into Waterloo Station.

  6. OECD-ITF calls for coordinated policies to scale light cargo vehicles in cities

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    Source: Fietsberaad

    A new report from the OECD’s International Transport Forum (ITF) highlights the growing role of light cargo vehicles, such as cargo bikes and other smaller-than-van vehicles for urban parcel delivery, while warning that their wider adoption depends on stronger and more coherent policy frameworks.

    The study, Lightening the Load: Integrating Light Cargo Vehicles in Cities, finds that urban logistics has diversified significantly in recent years as operators increasingly turn to smaller delivery vehicles for last-mile operations. In dense urban environments, these vehicles can deliver parcels more efficiently than vans and trucks, while supporting key public policy objectives, including reduced emissions, improved road safety, and enhanced urban liveability.

    However, the report cautions that light cargo vehicles also face operational limitations, notably reduced range and carrying capacity. These constraints may require additional urban logistics hubs and a larger workforce, increasing costs in an already competitive market. As a result, the ITF stresses that authorities must play an active role in shaping the conditions under which these vehicles can succeed.

    A central challenge identified in the report is the absence of harmonised international standards and classifications for cargo bikes and other micro-delivery vehicles. Fragmented regulations create uncertainty for manufacturers and operators, complicate access to insurance and financing, and slow market development. The lack of consistent employment and training standards further complicates uptake and raises concerns about worker safety and well-being.

    To address these issues, the ITF has advised several suggestions.

    ITF policy recommendations:

    Integrate freight logistics within broader urban planning strategies and mobility plans

    • The report urges cities to embed freight logistics early on into urban planning and mobility strategies, including sustainable urban logistics plans supported by collaboration between authorities, operators, workers, and citizens.

    Promote vehicle taxonomies that support desired policy outcomes

    • Clear vehicle classifications aligned with goals such as space efficiency, safety, congestion reduction, and environmental performance can help authorities assign access rights and rules transparently.

    Align domestic standards and light cargo vehicle classifications to best-in-class frameworks

    • Harmonising national regulations with international or leading frameworks would reduce uncertainty and enable faster market development for light cargo vehicles.

    Encourage more sustainable outcomes through vehicle size and weight-based incentives

    • Incentives based on vehicle size and weight, such as access to priority lanes or urban zones, can steer operators toward smaller, more sustainable delivery options.

    Promote an urban logistics sector that provides fair, green jobs for the future of logistics

    • The report calls for standards on training, fair employment, and worker safety to ensure light logistics contributes to decent, future-proof jobs.

    Facilitate the development of fixed and mobile micro-hubs to support small cargo vehicles

    • The ITF highlights the importance of urban micro-hubs and shared logistics spaces to support efficient light cargo operations.

    The full ITF (OECD) report on Lightening the Load: Integrating Light Cargo Vehicles in Cities can be downloaded from Fietsberaad.

  7. EIFEL Project helps bpost achieve zero-emission deliveries in Brussels

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    Source: VUB Mobilise

    The EIFEL Project established by VUB Mobilise in 2021 played a supporting role in enabling Belgian post operator, bpost, to achieve zero-emissions mail and parcel deliveries across Brussels earlier this year.

    VUB Mobilise point out that there are numerous environmental, societal and economic benefits following the shift to electric cargo bikes and vans for urban freight.

    The network of collection points was expanded, helping to reduce overall vehicle-kilometers. Moreover, a concerted effort to transfer delivery activities from electric vans to bike trailers has cut road accident impacts by 17%, and overall traffic congestion has been reduced, saving an estimated 566 hours per year.

    VUB Mobilise researchers Koen Mommens and Joséphine Mariquivoi contributed to the outcomes of the EIFEL Project. Their work assessed the impacts of the transition, and engaged with postal staff to capture their views, helping to prevent any resistance and adverse effects during the implementation stage.

    VUB Mobilise also examined consumer responses from 19 municipalities, identifying five distinct demographic groups and developing insights for targeted communication, policy design and future research into sustainable urban logistics.

  8. London’s cargo bike use doubles over two years

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    Source: Zag Daily, BikeBiz, Parcel and Postal Technology International, Seattle Times

    Analysis of cycling data from Transport for London by the Clean Cities network has revealed that there was 104% increase in cargo bike use in London during the period from 2022-2024.

    Clean Cities has also recently reported that diesel vans are now the biggest road source of NOx emissions in central London, highlighting the urgent need for non-polluting solutions. They have called for the rollout of a zero-emission zone for urban freight in the future.

    Zak Bond, the Campaign Manager for Clean Cities, said, “Our analysis has shown that diesel vans are now the biggest road source of dirty air in central London. Shifting as many deliveries as possible to cargo bikes is essential. This increase in cargo bike use is a strong start, but local authorities must do more to support residents and businesses to use cargo bikes. That should include new grants which help those who need it most with the high upstart cost of a cargo bike.” He added, when speaking to Zag Daily: “London should learn from what works in other countries like the Netherlands. A zero-emission urban freight zone must be a true partnership between boroughs, industry and the Mayor.”

    Diving deeper into the data, it was found that the rate of cargo bike increase was slower in 2023-2024 than in 2022-2023, leading Clean Cities to urge the Mayor of London and London Boroughs to re-start the momentum with measures such as grants, to help make cargo bikes more affordable for small businesses and residents. 

    The analysis was released alongside the sixth edition of the Cargo Bike Cruise, claimed as the largest convoy of cargo bikes in the world, and organised by the Sustainable Urban Freight Association (SUFA), Clean Cities and Team London Bridge.

    SUFA Co-chair Lee Pugh said, “It’s great to see progress being made in London and across the UK. The Sustainable Urban Freight Association will lead a delegation to the International Cargo Bike Festival in Utrecht next month, where we will highlight this fantastic increase in delivery miles and work together with our European partners to accelerate the transition to cargo bikes and cleaner, more ethical goods transport.”

    Jack Skillen, Director of Sustainability and Place at Team London Bridge, highlighted ways they are working to encourage wider use of cargo bikes. “The Cargo Bike Cruise shows how transformational the shift to cargo bikes can be for a business district like London Bridge, making deliveries less polluted, less noisy, and removing traffic and stress to create healthy streets. Our Cargo Bike Service Directory is helping businesses to take emissions out of their supply chains, with 100 services, from couriers to office supplies to waste, available locally on cargo bike. We encourage authorities to support this momentum, and operators and service providers to change their own logistics to cargo bikes where feasible. The Cruise is made up of inspiring businesses leading the way.”

    Internationally, cargo bikes are becoming more widely recognised for their logistics potential. In Seattle, the city’s Department of Transportation is considering new rules for the use of electric cargo bikes to address a range of issues: freeing up curb space, easing congestion and reducing emissions. A 2023 study which analysed Seattle-based cargo bike riders found that they were able to keep moving 40% of the time compared to 20% for delivery drivers, as there was less time spent looking for parking in congested areas. As a result, the average trip time per parcel by cargo bike was 2.2 minutes, compared to 6.2 minutes for a delivery van.

  9. Prague promotes sustainable urban delivery with Better Cities Fund launch

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    Source: EU Urban Mobility Observatory, EIT Urban Mobility

    A new initiative, the Better Cities Fund, has been introduced to Prague to help couriers transition to electric cargo bikes, in an effort to bring sustainable transport to last-mile delivery services in the Czech capital. The fund was launched by urban delivery company Wolt, with the support of EIT Urban Mobility, and partners Threshpoint Analytics and South Pole.

    The fund has seen success in other cities in Northern Europe, and in Prague €400,000 will be available to help couriers switch to one of two electric cargo bike options – a compact and versatile long-tail model, or a high-capacity four-wheel bike, both of which provide 100km+ of range and come with two swappable batteries, enhancing flexibility. The programme offers flexible leasing options with no down payment required, and comprehensive insurance and maintenance.

    Wolt recently organised a test drive in Prague to showcase the vehicles, allowing couriers and city officials, as well as members of the public, to experience the potential of the cargo bikes first-hand. Traian Urban, Director at EIT Urban Mobility Innovation Hub East, attended the event, and discussed the role of zero-emission transport in urban areas. “With increasing pressure on European cities to reduce transport-related emissions, expanding electric delivery fleets is a practical step toward improving air quality. By prioritising sustainable urban transport, Prague—and cities like it—can make tangible progress in reducing pollution and creating healthier environments for residents.”

    Jakub Moťovský, Head of Courier Strategy & Innovation, Region Central, at Wolt, also shared his thoughts on making last-mile logistics more sustainable. “Prague has the opportunity to enhance sustainable urban logistics, especially in last-mile delivery, by adopting greener solutions and advancing low-emission transportation. Better Cities Fund supports this transition by helping couriers overcome the high costs of electric transport and showcasing innovative approaches to reducing the city’s carbon footprint.”

    Find out more about the Better Cities Fund, and how to apply, here.