Mapping out the potential for coordinated goods distribution in city centres: The case of Uppsala

Goods transport is a key element of the economic life of city centres, providing essential services but causing congestion, air pollution and safety hazards. The objective of this study was to map out city centre goods distribution in Uppsala, Sweden, in order to investigate the potential for coordinated goods distribution to reduce cost, congestion and environmental impact. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected using questionnaires, interviews and measurements at loading and unloading zones of retail shops. The analysis revealed delivery system inefficiencies as small and frequent deliveries involved large numbers of transport operators with vehicles not effectively utilised