A Comprehensive Case Study in Last-Mile Delivery Concepts for Parcel Robots

Abstract

This study was designed to evaluate innovative last-mile delivery concepts involving autonomous parcel robots with simulation and optimization. In the proposed concept, the last mile of parcel delivery is split into a two-tiered system, where parcels are first transported to a transfer point by conventional trucks and then delivered with parcel robots on customer demand. The purpose of this publication is to compare different time slot selection options for customers, namely due window and on demand selection, in the context of city logistics measures such as access regulations and driving bans for city centers. An agent-based simulation model is used, including a Geographic Information System environment and optimization algorithms for allocation and scheduling of delivery robots. The concept is tested in a comprehensive case study located in the city center of Cologne (Germany) based on real data from the parcel delivery company Hermes.