Migration to smaller, urban distribution hubs: Consumer demand for faster and more flexible last-mile delivery is driving a transition towards urban distribution hubs, which are more costly. Autonomous vehicles and shared distribution models could help deliver better customer service at a lower cost.
Transitioning logistics fleets to ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEV): Regulation and social expectations are driving the transition to ULEV delivery vehicles. Retail fleets and logistics will need to invest in both vehicles and suitable refuelling infrastructure.
Subscription delivery models for regular delivery of goods: Some online retailers are introducing subscription models for the regular delivery of goods, facilitated by the availability of last-mile delivery and direct-to-consumer models.
Real-time freight brokerage: With many goods transport fleets often running partially full or empty for part of a journey, freight brokerage emerges as a form of shared economy for goods transport. Brokerage platforms could sell excess space on planned deliveries in order to deliver additional revenue and reduce the environmental cost.
Reverse logistics chain optimisation: While a lot of attention is focussed on the delivery value chain, mobility could also improve the reverse logistics chain for returns, waste and recycling. Adaptable autonomous delivery vehicles could facilitate two-way deliveries, and redistribute goods and returns locally rather than to central distribution centres.
Automation in warehouses: Increasing autonomous vehicle and robotics technology doesn't just help cars on the road. In factories and warehouses, increasingly sophisticated machines are expected to pick, transport and package vehicles with limited human intervention, increasing speed of delivery and reducing cost.