Cluster Analysis and Spatial Modeling for Urban Freight. Identifying Homogeneous Urban Zones Based on Urban Form and Logistics Characteristics

Confronted with the issues of the ‘last mile’, delivery providers have to adapt their logistics organization in cities for more economic and environmental efficiency and in order to meet consumer requirements. A better and systematic use of the providers’ knowledge of the local conditions and of their expertise of cities’ specificities and delivery conditions is one way to reorganize logistics more efficiently and deal with urban logistics challenges. This article develops a preview of a decision-making tool using spatial modeling and clustering which help organize delivery regarding city's characteristics. The framework could help distribution providers achieve relevant and complete territorial diagnosis, prior to the settlement of efficient logistics organizations that suit cities’ characteristics.