The Flemish Institute for Logistics (VIL) is to investigate
the added value of entrusting parcel deliveries more frequently to
private individuals. To this end, the Institute launched the Crowd Logistics project yesterday.
According to the VIL, it is high time to ‘prepare the sector for this
disruptive trend’.
Ten logistics service providers and
shippers: BD myShopi, Bringme, DHL Parcel, Dreamland, GLS, Kariboo!,
Mondial Relay, Multitrans, Procter & Gamble and Trimble. Their participation should
demonstrate that, alongside the well-known threats, crowd logistics can also
for large companies in the logistics sector.
Crowd logistics
Crowd logistics involves members of the public, either individually or collectively,
. This is usually done via an app. Drivers often use their
own vehicles. This gives rise to considerable debate in many sectors. With
such initiatives, unfair competition is a common occurrence.
Furthermore, drivers often do not hold the necessary licences and
insurance.
Added value for logistics operators
Nevertheless, companies cannot ignore this aspect of the sharing economy
, according to VIL. The institute therefore wishes to investigate which business models
parcel delivery by private individuals and semi-professionals can be made economically viable.
On its website, the VIL writes: “What are the legal implications of this,
particularly in terms of product liability? How can it be integrated
into current business logistics? What is the added value for both
logistics operators and for society? Through concrete return on investment
calculations, impact analyses and practical tests for both B2B and
B2C applications, the VIL is seeking the answers.”
Editorial LogistiekProfs
Stay up to date
Sign up now for the LogistiekProfs newsletter and receive the latest news, trends and offers.
