Development and Application of a Transferability Framework for Micro-consolidation Schemes in Urban Freight Transport

Many recent experiences in the field of urban freight consolidation, focus on bundling goods close to the reception point. We will refer to these as to micro-consolidation initiatives. In fact, whereas in a typical consolidation scheme, the bundling of goods takes place at a distribution centre outside of the delivery area, the micro-consolidation schemes consist of the setting-up of logistical platforms in the heart of urban areas where the goods are consolidated before the final delivery to the customer.This paper aims to offer a closer view into different micro-consolidation initiatives by establishing state of the art and defining common typologies. Furthermore, this paper provides guidelines for the transferability of micro-consolidation measures - based on a study of more than 30 case studies across Europe and of current transferability methodologies developed under several EU projects. A common transferability framework was developed, providing the main dimensions of analysis as well as relevant attributes and indicators. This framework was applied in order to test the transferability potential of the Espace de Livraison de Proximité in Brussels and to select the optimal pilot site for its implementation.