We piloted a new urban logistics concept from May to September 2024 as part of the Horizon Europe funded DISCO project. This concept publication presents the operating principles, operational model, roles of actors, and commercial operating conditions of the tested Microhub.
Significant challenges in urban logistics include emissions from distribution and the limited urban space typical of the urban environment. The goal of the DISCO project is to test the functionality of a shared logistics service-combining Microhub in an urban environment. The pilot was coordinated by Forum Virium Helsinki, and A2B, DB Schenker, DHL Express, LMAD, and Rolan participated in the pilot.
The Microhub, located in Ruoholahti district, acted as a hub for environmentally friendly deliveries. Shipments were brought to the Microhub by vans and trucks, from where they were further distributed to the denser urban environment by lighter modes of transport, such as cargo bikes and delivery robots. The Microhub also had a DHL Express customer service point where customers could pick up and send packages. In addition, the Microhub had workstations for company employees.
During the experiment, a total of over 1,500 shipments were delivered from the local distribution center with three A2B and DB Schenker cargo bikes and two delivery robots, operated by LMAD. Consolidation of parcel deliveries was also tested in the Microhub pilot.
Lessons and Concept Report
The experiment showed that the Microhub enabled the delivery of shipments in a new way and with lighter modes of transport. Switching to lighter modes of transport enables the reduction of CO2 and noise emissions from distribution operations, as the use of cargo bikes and delivery robots reduces driving with vans and trucks in city centers. In addition, lighter modes of transport take up less space in the dense urban structure, which increases the comfort and safety of the city.
As part of the Microhub pilot, we gathered the lessons and experiences together with Ramboll Finland Oy to define the concept of the Microhub. The service design work utilized workshops and expert interviews. The resulting Concept Report serves as an easily accessible guide for further development of Microhub concepts.
The goal of the Horizon Europe-funded DISCO project is to develop and test new solutions for the flexible use of underutilized urban space to solve urban logistics challenges with data-oriented solutions.
Additional information
Matias Oikari
Project Manager
+358 40 664 8877
matias.oikari@forumvirium.fi
