摘要：AbstractUrban goods distribution is crucial for the economic vitality of cities but at the same time it causes several problems with regard to traffic congestion and environment. This paper proposes a strategic solution combining cooperation between freight carriers through the use of a consolidation terminal to reduce operational costs, and consequently the negative impacts on the city. The current system without consolidation center is compared in terms of operational costs with a future system where a consolidation center is implemented. Continuous analysis is used to formulate a basic model to estimate costs and benefits. Finally, general results are discussed and a case study in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat (Metropolitan Area of Barcelona) is analyzed. Results are promising with a 12-14% of operational cost savings in a general case. From the case study we conclude that the commitment of the 40% of demand allows covering the costs of terminal implantation.
