Is more sustainable and efficient last mile logistics possible?
Traditionally, Sustainability and logistics efficiency have been seen as opposing concepts: while one prioritises environmental care, the other seeks maximum operational profitability. But what if they were really complementary? This is the challenge of modern logistics, particularly in the last mileThe most costly and polluting part of the whole process.
In this article we discuss how solutions such as the PUDOs (collection points) not only help reduce emissions and urban traffic, but also optimise costs for eCommerce and how, at Celeritas, we integrate sustainability as a strategic axis of our logistics proposal.
Sustainability and logistics efficiency, contradiction or synergy?
The last mile represents the final leg of a parcel's journey to its destination. Paradoxically, it is the phase that concentrates the most expense, complexity and carbon footprint. Can we be more sustainable and, at the same time, more efficient at this stage? The answer lies in rethinking traditional delivery models.
The collection points (PUDOs) emissions, traffic and kilometres travelled, while improving logistics operations.
The environmental impact of the last mile in eCommerce logistics
The last mile: the most critical phase in terms of cost and emissions
According to a report by Citiboxemissions, missed deliveries and inefficient routing in urban environments all lead to increased emissions of pollutant gases. In addition, congestion and traffic generated by delivery vehicles add to pollution in cities.
Why go for a sustainable last mile?
Faced with this scenario, the need arises to build a sustainable last mileLogistics that reduces their environmental impact, decongests streets and contributes to improving the quality of life in cities. A goal that not only responds to an ethical responsibility, but also to a growing demand from consumers and regulators.
Collection points (PUDOs): key to sustainable logistics
What are PUDOs and how do they work?
The PUDOs (Pick-Up and Drop-Off points) are physical shops where consumers can pick up or return their online orders, avoiding direct home delivery. This system allows dozens of packages to be grouped together at a single point, eliminating the need to travel to multiple addresses.
According to NovologisticaAs a result, more and more Spaniards are opting for PUDOs as their preferred delivery method, which is evidence of a change in mentality towards more responsible delivery models.
Benefits of PUDOs for the environment
The use of collection points brings clear benefits in terms of sustainability:
- Grouping of deliveries in one placeThe number of journeys required is reduced.
- Less traffic in urban areasby concentrating deliveries at fixed points.
- Reduction in kilometres travelled per vehicle.
- Fewer failed delivery attemptsavoiding additional travel.
This model not only improves logistics performance, but also actively contributes to reducing the carbon footprint.
How do PUDOs improve the operational efficiency of logistics?
Economic and operational advantages for eCommerce
In addition to the environmental benefit, the PUDOs also represent an operational and economic advantage for online shops. The concentration of deliveries at fixed delivery points reduces the delivery costsThe rate of successful deliveries at the first attempt and reduces the number of incidents that often saturate customer service.
All this contributes to a more effective and predictable logistics management, where sustainability is not an added cost, but a lever for efficiency.
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Sustainability and logistics efficiency: an interdependent relationship
Contrary to what one might think, sustainability and logistical efficiency are interdependent. Reducing kilometres, optimising routes and grouping deliveries not only takes care of the environment: it also makes the service more agile, economical and reliable. In this context, responsible logistics is a commitment to a more competitive operation.
Logistics sustainability as a strategic value for eCommerce
Increasingly demanding and aware consumers
Commitment to sustainability is no longer an added value: it is a purchasing criterion. A study published in Soziable reveals that the 54% of consumers would pay more for a sustainable product. This makes responsible logistics a key factor in differentiation and customer acquisition.
Responsible logistics builds loyalty and improves the shopping experience.
When brands bet on a sustainable logisticsare strengthening their image and improving the shopping experience. The reduction of incidents, the possibility of choosing a nearby PUDO or the transparency in the carbon footprint of each shipment strengthen the relationship with the customer, boosting their loyalty and recommendation.
Celeritas' commitment to sustainable logistics
Punto Celeritas Network: capillarity and proximity
With almost 9,000 collection points in Spain and Portugal, 82% of the population has access to a Celeritas point within 3 km. In high-density areas, coverage reaches 85%, which allows for reduced travel and optimised deliveries.
Technology and long-term environmental vision
Celeritas uses route optimisation technology to minimise emissions and CO₂ emissions. This combines innovation, sustainability and cost-effectiveness for eCommerce.
Conclusion: Each delivery, an opportunity to improve sustainability
Sustainability and logistics efficiency are not only compatible, they are mutually reinforcing. A commitment to a sustainable last mile is not only an ethical issue, but a smart decision for eCommerce. On CeleritasWe are clear about this: every delivery is an opportunity to improve.
Our network of PUDOsOur technology and our sustainable vision allow us to move towards responsible and profitable logistics, adapted to the new market requirements.