ABSTRACT
The objective of this research is to identify, through a systematic
literature review, the main type of vehicles used for the last mile
distribution of urban freight transport, as well as the main features of
these vehicles, the barriers, opportunities and benefits related to
their use. It has been observed a trend for the adoption of smaller and
lighter vehicles for last mile deliveries in urban areas: 47% of the
studies suggest, among other alternatives, the use of bicycles and
tricycles and 53% of the articles support the adoption of light
commercial vehicles. Another trend observed in this type of
distribution, which has been pointed out by 64% of others studies, is
the migration from conventional (fossil fuels) to alternative sources of
energy (electricity). These trends evidence a tendency in urban freight
distribution to adopt more social and environmental sustainable
measures. Nonetheless, there are still cultural barriers by clients in
signing contracts with companies that operate with alternative vehicles.
KEYWORDS : last mile; urban freight distribution; vehicle; city
logistics.