Urban freight logistics systems: an overview of policy frameworks for South East Europe

Abstract

Studies show that urban freight policies have not kept pace with the rapid growth of freight demand. Urban freight is of particular importance, as the high population density of cities generates high demand for goods in a specific space and timeframe for the products to be delivered. Although, most countries have generic freight strategies in place, only in certain cases these strategies address urban freight issues. This research identified that most regulations are mostly focused on general traffic issues and transport of dangerous and oversized goods. To draw that conclusion, the research examined urban freight measures that have been applied by countries in South East Europe as well as Central Europe. Based on the conclusions and recommendations mainly from European projects that have been implemented in large municipalities, the paper recommends a set of possible urban freight policies tools. It then examines recommendations concerning the creation of coherent urban freight policies in the countries of South East Europe.