Decoding cargo bikes’ potential to be a sustainable last-mile delivery mode: an operations management perspective

Cargo bikes are considered as a low-cost and flexible last-mile solution for the transport of goods. However, there are few studies that identify and contextualise the factors underpinning their sustainable operations and potential to effectively work as the last leg of a green, efficient, and societally beneficial supply chain. The authors addressed this gap by systematically collecting and thematically analysing 49 articles published between 2017 and 2023. The findings demonstrate that cargo bikes can utilise their potential as a sustainable last-mile delivery mode if: (a) their operations are optimised (from parking to routing and from traffic management to load capacity planning); (b) their social sustainability performance is enhanced (e.g. safety, security, fatigue of workforce); and (c) the cities hosting them invest in bike-friendly infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, land use approaches and mobility hubs. This paper offers cargo bike insights that can assist relevant stakeholders to enhance their efficiency and overall adoption.