How about including urban informal settlements in city logistics? An equity comparative analysis of e-commerce last mile deliveries

Purpose Urban freight transportation (UFT) ensures people’s accessibility to basic goods. However, many disadvantaged groups or their geographical areas are excluded from the logistics networks. This exacerbates transport-related social exclusion. Despite the benefits of e-commerce, dwellers of urban informal settlement (UIS) face several logistical barriers hindering online shopping. This paper aims to investigate barriers and initiatives of e-commerce last mile deliveries (LMD) in UISs, comparing them with other practices to combat transport injustices around the world. Design/methodology/approach A case-study research design was applied through in-depth interviews with two companies focused on LMD solutions in UISs in Brazil and South Africa. Additionally, other data sources were considered to ensure study validity and reliability. Findings The analysis shows that both companies share the following five broad barriers in urban logistics of UISs: (1) strict restrictions imposed by other UFT stakeholders; (2) lack of formal addresses; (3) lack of local information and data; (4) local topography and infrastructure and (5) security issues. Furthermore, collection and delivery points hold great potential for LMD equity in UISs. However, these barriers persist, requiring greater decision-maker engagement and community involvement regarding UFT policies in this context. Originality/value This study provides a new understanding of e-commerce UFT activities in different types of UISs. Therefore, we hope this paper contributes to the growing body of research on city logistics in UISs, promoting a better quality of life for this population.