Work

Innovating the last mile: Consumer acceptance and economic drivers of drone deliveries in urban logistics

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Retail e-commerce growth has led to greater demand for urban transport and last-mile deliveries, increasing the associated challenges and issues. In this context, policymakers are called upon to introduce innovative systems toward an environmentally sustainable approach. Using drones for freight deliveries could be a solution, although their use in most countries remains in its infancy for technical, economic, security, and reasons linked to public perception. Through a survey, we shed light on the elements influencing the use of drones for freight deliveries in relation to consumer preferences. Through factor analysis, multinomial, and ordered logit models, we identify factors that facilitate the potential adoption of this service and influence citizens' willingness to pay and sensitivity to drone use. These preliminary results provide important insights for local policymakers and regulators in developing and implementing policies on integrating drone freight services into urban mobility strategies.

Source: Research in Transportation Business & Management

DOI: 10.1016/j.rtbm.2025.101510

Authors: Angela Stefania Bergantino, Giulio Fusco, Mario Intini

Institution: University of Bari Aldo Moro

Language: English

Topic: Urban and Freight Transport Logistics

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,620