The logistics sector is undergoing a significant transformation as cities seek more sustainable and efficient solutions for urban deliveries. A study commissioned by the Belgian Cycle Logistics Federation and conducted by Kale AI provides compelling data on the advantages of cargo bikes over traditional vans in dense urban environments. Analyzing over 32,500 deliveries across multiple Belgian cities, the study demonstrates the operational efficiency, economic benefits, and environmental impact of transitioning to cycle logistics.

Cargo Bikes vs. Vans: A Performance Breakthrough

The study focused on KGS Group, a logistics operator that successfully integrated cargo bikes into its delivery fleet. The findings reveal that cargo bikes outperform vans in dense urban areas, achieving 28% higher delivery rates per hour. In high-density zones, cargo bikes consistently complete 22-25 deliveries per hour, while vans struggle with efficiency due to congestion and parking challenges.

One of the most striking results is the impact of cargo bikes in Brussels’ city center, where deliveries by bike are completed 30% faster than by van. In the most challenging areas, cargo bikes reduce service times by up to 75%, saving logistics companies up to three hours per 100 deliveries. This efficiency translates into significant cost savings and improved reliability for logistics operators.

Beyond Speed: Environmental and Urban Benefits

The shift to cargo bikes also presents major environmental and social advantages. The study shows that replacing diesel vans with cargo bikes can reduce CO2 emissions by 98%, with an equally significant reduction in noise pollution. Given that 75% of Brussels’ population lives in areas where cargo bikes operate efficiently, the potential for a widespread positive impact is enormous.

Furthermore, cargo bikes require far less space than traditional delivery vans, helping to alleviate urban congestion and parking issues. Their ability to access pedestrian zones and restricted areas makes them an ideal solution for last-mile delivery, particularly as cities implement stricter low-emission and traffic reduction policies.

Key Applications: E-Commerce, B2B, and Shuttle Services

Cargo bikes are already proving highly effective in various logistics applications, including:

• B2C parcel deliveries: High-density e-commerce deliveries benefit from the speed and agility of cargo bikes.
• B2B parcel logistics: Office supplies, food products, and technical equipment can be efficiently transported across business districts.
• Urban shuttle services: Cargo bikes excel in fixed-route operations, such as medical sample transfers or inter-office deliveries.

Strategic Recommendations for Logistics Operators

The study highlights the need for logistics operators to adopt a mixed-fleet approach, strategically deploying cargo bikes in high-density zones while using vans for suburban and long-distance deliveries. Key recommendations include:

• Investment in micro-hubs: Locating distribution points closer to urban centers can further enhance the efficiency of cargo bike operations.
• Smart route planning: Data-driven optimization of delivery routes ensures maximum efficiency and cost savings.
• Infrastructure improvements: Expanding bike-friendly urban infrastructure will support the growth of cycle logistics.

Conclusion: A Call for a LEV-Regulation

With urban freight expected to increase in the coming years, the adoption of cargo bikes represents a scalable and sustainable solution for the future of city logistics. The study’s findings provide a strong case for businesses, policymakers, and city planners to accelerate the transition to cycle logistics, improving urban mobility, reducing emissions, and enhancing delivery efficiency.

LEVA-EU strongly encourages logistics operators to explore not only cargo bike integration but also other available light electric vehicles such as cargo e-scooters, three- and four-wheeled cargo mopeds, and even microcars. LEVA-EU also calls on EU policymakers to support this shift through regulatory changes. A dedicated LEV Regulation, as recommended by the Commission’s Expert Group on Urban Mobility and endorsed by the European Commission, will open the market for new types of cargo vehicles. Many of these are currently obstructed from entering the market due to outdated and inadequate legislation.

As Belgium’s success story demonstrates, the time for change is now—cargo bikes and other light electric cargo vehicles are not just an alternative; they are the future of sustainable urban logistics.