Framework for Physical Internet deployment in cities

ABSTRACT

Urban freight logistics is a complex interaction of stakeholders, technology, and infrastructure that shapes the dynamics of city logistics networks. The need for efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability in urban logistics is paramount due to the unpredictability of order patterns and the dispersed nature of delivery points. However, traditional approaches often result in isolated stakeholder operations and limited collaboration, leading to underutilized resources and duplicated efforts. This paper proposes a framework for the operation of the Physical Internet (PI) in logistics, which aims to break down silos and foster collaboration to minimize environmental impact in cities. The PI envisions standardized, interconnected logistics operations akin to digital packets moving through a network of hubs. Collaborative distribution networks in urban freight and the PI share the goal of transforming isolated operations into interconnected systems. The symbiotic relationship between these concepts offers a promising solution to achieve sustainable, efficient urban logistics systems. The integration of the Physical Internet Framework and the Sustainable Urban Logistics Plan holds the potential to usher in a transformative era of collaboration, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

KEYWORDS:

• Physical internet
• city logistics
• urban logistics
• physical internet for cities
• physical internet in cities
• physical internet framework

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Economics.