Royal Mail has slashed van usage and mileage while increasing foot-based parcel deliveries in a sustainability-focused trial carried out with Ford.
Conducted in the M4 postcode, the trial used Ford’s Mode:Link routing software to support a multi-modal delivery approach, reducing the number of parcel vans needed in the city centre each day. Equipped with specially built parcel trolleys, postmen and postwomen met delivery vans at coordinated points and delivered parcels on foot.
The trial saw Royal Mail cut van usage for designated delivery routes by 50%, whilst decreasing daily vehicle mileage by 33%, resulting in a reduction in CO2e emissions per parcel.
Tom Thompson, founder, last mile delivery at Ford Mobility, said: “Our software made it possible for Royal Mail to help reduce carbon emissions and congestion in city centres. As we enter the busiest and most magical time of year for parcels, we are delighted to see the results of this trial prove the value of delivery on foot and the effectiveness of Ford’s software in making city centres cleaner, greener and safer.”
It’s part of Royal Mail’s work to explore initiatives to reduce van usage, including the use of micro electric vehicles and drones for delivery to remote locations, as well as maximising the UK’s largest “Feet on the Street” network of over 85,000 postmen and women.
Achim Dunnwald, chief operating officer, at Royal Mail, said: “Ford’s software enabled Royal Mail to reduce van usage and mileage in the trial area, whilst still offering a prompt and reliable parcel delivery service. At Royal Mail, we are continuously looking at opportunities to reduce our emissions, alongside delivering convenience to our customers.”
