Urban transport: Better quality of life thanks to smart mobility
Cities are growing, becoming denser and facing ever greater challenges in terms of transport and the environment. Urbanisation is driving fundamental change in logistics: traditional delivery concepts are increasingly reaching their limits.
Traffic volumes are steadily increasing in major German cities, while public space remains limited. At the same time, requirements for air pollution control and CO₂ reduction are rising. Urban environmental zones, access restrictions and planned zero-emission zones are making conventional delivery processes more difficult. Logistics companies must therefore adapt their strategies in order to be able to deliver both efficiently and in compliance with regulations.
New concepts for the last mile
Many companies are relying on innovative concepts to make inner-city delivery traffic sustainable. One such concept is micro-depots. These are decentralised transshipment points on the outskirts of cities or in neighbourhoods, from which fine distribution is carried out by e-cargo bikes or small e-vans. Another solution is cargo bikes and e-transporters. These emission-free vehicles offer a flexible and quiet solution for the last mile, especially in traffic-calmed zones. Cooperative logistics models are also the subject of much discussion. Various service providers share storage space and transport resources in order to reduce traffic congestion.
Finally, time slot management also offers great potential for relieving congestion in city centres. With the help of digital tools, delivery times can be better controlled. This could ease rush hour traffic and noticeably reduce congestion in cities.
Digitalisation makes it possible
Digital platforms and telematics systems already play a key role in new urban logistics. They help with route optimisation, dynamic tour planning and the integration of multimodal transport. Real-time data from city traffic is also increasingly being incorporated into delivery processes. This helps to avoid delays, reduce emissions and increase customer satisfaction.
Local conditions are crucial for successful change. Support programmes for zero-emission vehicles, the expansion of charging infrastructure and clear regulations for micro-depots and delivery zones are key success factors. The transformation of urban logistics can only succeed in close cooperation with the public sector.
Urbanisation as a driving force
Urbanisation is a driver for new mobility concepts in delivery transport. The combination of digitalisation, alternative drive systems and new logistics models offers the opportunity to harmonise urban quality of life and economic efficiency. Companies that invest in innovative concepts now not only ensure regulatory compliance, but also long-term competitiveness.