City Logistics Optimization:Gothenburg Inner City Freight Delivery

Abstract

As number of freight vehicles and the volume handled steadily increase and negative effects of transport are being recognized, sustainable transport attracts more attention from both the researchers and transport stakeholders. Since conflicts of interest among stakeholders are not avoidable, it is important to seek for and keep the balance. This research conducts a qualitative method to discuss the optimization possibilities of the city logistics of non-chain stores in central Gothenburg, Sweden by focusing on two stakeholders: The administrators and the freight operators. Based on some of the best practices in urban logistics in other major cities in Europe, this paper tries to suggest new methods for the area in Gothenburg. To understand the subject better, relevant information is collected by the authors from different people involved in city logistics. After getting a clear idea, literature on the subject has been scanned to find the relevant theories. Based on the dynamics of the city, ideas which are not suitable and which could be suitable are discussed from the perspective of the three pillars of sustainability.