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Introducing the Shared Micro-Depot Network for Last-Mile Logistics

Author

Listed:
  • Leonardo N. Rosenberg

    (Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Management, Technion—Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, 3200003 Haifa, Israel)

  • Noemie Balouka

    (Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Management, Technion—Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, 3200003 Haifa, Israel)

  • Yale T. Herer

    (Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Management, Technion—Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, 3200003 Haifa, Israel)

  • Eglantina Dani

    (CIMNE—International Centre for Numerical Methods in Engineering, Edifici C1 Campus Nord UPC C/Gran Capità, 08034 Barcelona, Spain)

  • Paco Gasparin

    (CIMNE—International Centre for Numerical Methods in Engineering, Edifici C1 Campus Nord UPC C/Gran Capità, 08034 Barcelona, Spain)

  • Kerstin Dobers

    (Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML, 44227 Dortmund, Germany)

  • David Rüdiger

    (Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML, 44227 Dortmund, Germany)

  • Pete Pättiniemi

    (Forum Virum Helsinki, FI00130 Helsinki, Finland)

  • Peter Portheine

    (Brainport Smart District, 5708 JZ Helmond, The Netherlands)

  • Sonja van Uden

    (Brainport Smart District, 5708 JZ Helmond, The Netherlands)

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; 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.

Suggested Citation

  • Leonardo N. Rosenberg & Noemie Balouka & Yale T. Herer & Eglantina Dani & Paco Gasparin & Kerstin Dobers & David Rüdiger & Pete Pättiniemi & Peter Portheine & Sonja van Uden, 2021. "Introducing the Shared Micro-Depot Network for Last-Mile Logistics," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(4), pages 1-21, February.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:4:p:2067-:d:499566
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Justyna Lemke & Kinga Kijewska & Stanisław Iwan & Tomasz Dudek, 2021. "Six Sigma in Urban Logistics Management—A Case Study," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(8), pages 1-16, April.
    2. Garola, Giovanni & Seghezzi, Arianna & Siragusa, Chiara & Mangiaracina, Riccardo, 2022. "Sustainability in urban logistics: A literature review," Chapters from the Proceedings of the Hamburg International Conference of Logistics (HICL), in: Kersten, Wolfgang & Jahn, Carlos & Blecker, Thorsten & Ringle, Christian M. (ed.), Changing Tides: The New Role of Resilience and Sustainability in Logistics and Supply Chain Management – Innovative Approaches for the Shift to a New , volume 33, pages 709-730, Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH), Institute of Business Logistics and General Management.

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