Opportunities and Feasibility of Urban Freight Consolidation: A Case Study in the Event Area of Gothenburg

Abstract

With economic development and the growth of tourist-based event areas, urban freight transport faces significant challenges in terms of congestion and environ-mental impact. The freight activities in the event area of Gothenburg, especially Liseberg and Svenska Mässan, are characterized by fragmented shipments, seasonal fluctuations and spatial constraints, leading to logistical inefficiencies. This study combines stakeholders’ interviews, freight trip generation (FTG) analysis and cost-based modeling to examine current delivery patterns in the event area, analyze the potential for freight consolidation, and assess the feasibility and sustainability of implementing consolidation strategies with an urban consolidation center (UCC). The results show that there is a strong need for freight consolidation in the area due to fluctuating, small-volume, frequent, and low-loading-rate deliveries, and that approaches such as multi-stop deliveries and receiver-led consolidation can signifi-cantly reduce delivery costs and traffic flows. Finally, the study provides actionable recommendations for stakeholders, including suppliers, logistics service providers, receivers, and public authorities, to advance consolidation strategies. This research contribute to the REDIG project’s goal of developing scalable, fossil-free logistics solutions that improve urban transport efficiency and support sustainable urban freight in Gothenburg and beyond.