Cargo bikes may be recognized as a cost-effective and adaptable solution for last-mile goods transportation. However, few studies have examined the factors essential for their sustainable operation and effectiveness as the final segment of a green, efficient, and socially beneficial supply chain.
To address this gap, the authors of a recent paper systematically collected and thematically analyzed 49 articles published between 2017 and 2023.
The findings reveal that cargo bikes can maximize their potential as a sustainable last-mile delivery method if:
- Their operations are optimized (including parking, routing, traffic management, and load capacity planning).
- Their social sustainability performance is improved (e.g., safety, security, workforce fatigue).
- Cities invest in bike-friendly infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, land use strategies, and mobility hubs.
This paper provides insights into cargo bike usage that can help stakeholders enhance their efficiency and overall adoption. Unfortunately, much recent research and literature was not used for this review. For a more complete review check: Everything you always wanted to know about cargo bikes.