What is CYCLE LOGISTICS?
Cycle logistics is the professional service of transport of goods and services by using carrier cycles.
Generally it includes the storage of goods, the handling and the flow management. Cycle logistics operators supply one-stop solutions by being able to collect, store and deliver goods.
Cycle logistics is specialised in first- or last-mile operations. It offers added value to collaborate with other transportation operators (on the road, on water or on rails) and to facilitate its integration within larger logistics chains.
Why cycle logistics?
Cycle logistics represents an alternative to motorized vehicles (where technically feasible) and participates to the mitigation of climate change and better cities by:
- Contributing to reducing the emissions of greenhouse gas (GHG)
- Contributing to reducing the emissions of fine particles
- Cutting noise pollution
- Making cities better to live and work
Cycle logistics offers healthy (outdoor and sporty) and varied jobs. It is a sector where humans, in particular cycle couriers, are central. Their jobs require cycling, handling and dispatching skills.
Cycle couriers, employed by the members of the BCLF, benefit from fair, decent and safe jobs. BCLF and its members present themselves as a counter-foot to the casualization of the bike couriers jobs by refusing to systematically externalise all the costs, uncertainties and risks related to our activities on their shoulders.
Cycle logistics makes cities better, economically, by:
- Reducing the cost of traffic congestion
- Reducing the use of public space compared to motorized means of transport
- Improving interaction with other road users
- Improving the air quality, and therefore reducing the impact of transport on people’s health
In addition, cycle logistics is efficient in cities, because it is not impacted by the traffic, it is easy to park at the delivery address, and it optimises its routes using dedicated software.
It promotes the development of the circular economy and it is by definition rooted in the local fabric.
Finally, we advocate to reflect the actual societal and environmental costs of transport. In such set up, cycle logistics would be highly competitive in urban areas.
Who are the cycle logisticians?
Professional carriers who provide transport services to third parties. Transport is their core business. Some of these organisations use exclusively carrier cycles and others have a mix of vehicles, including carrier cycles.
Professionals with carrier cycles who deliver their own goods or services to their customers. Transport is not their core business, but a mean to deliver.
