Unlocking the potential: How can parcel lockers drive efficiency and environmental friendliness in E-commerce?

Abstract

This paper analyses the efficiency and carbon footprint of different last-mile delivery solutions, including parcel lockers, pick-up points, and home deliveries. A Decision Support Tool (DST) is developed, utilizing real data on parcel deliveries and time allocation. The DST distinguishes between fixed, variable, and salary costs, revealing that time spent on delivery tasks and associated salary costs are the primary cost drivers. Deliveries to pick-up points are more efficient than deliveries to parcel lockers, but this efficiency depends on the number of parcels delivered. The environmental footprint of the solutions is influenced by how recipients collect their parcels.

Keywords

• E-commerce
• Parcel lockers
• Home deliveries
• Pick-up point
• Last mile
• Cost model