22. Re-use and Recycling of Packaging  #

The reuse and recycling of packaging are among the most effective best practices adopted by producers and AFNs. These practices substantially reduce environmental impact by lowering the demand for new materials and minimizing waste generation, thereby promoting sustainability and supporting the circular economy within the food industry. 

In addition, adopting such logistics solutions helps streamline regional food supply chains by optimizing resource use and reducing costs related to packaging procurement and disposal. This increased efficiency not only boosts profitability but also enhances the resilience of supply chains, allowing them to better adapt to fluctuating demands and market conditions. 

Projects like D4Pack demonstrate how the development of reusable, modular, and recyclable packaging systems can significantly improve resource efficiency and reduce logistics and distribution costs. By integrating digital tracking and return systems, producers can more easily manage packaging flows, reduce losses, and simplify cleaning and reuse. This approach strengthens regional food supply chains, increases their adaptability to changing demand, and builds consumer trust in sustainable practices. 

23. Sustainable Cooling in Warehouses  #

Food often requires refrigeration, which significantly increases energy consumption. While the energy efficiency rating is an important factor when purchasing refrigerators, storage rooms—often large spaces with external openings—present additional challenges. When constructing new warehouses, it is essential to use insulating materials that minimise heat transfer to the outside. In existing facilities, energy efficiency can be improved by adding insulation, sealing leaks, and installing high-speed or automatic doors and air curtains. 

Less obvious actions can also contribute to energy savings, such as raising employee awareness and avoiding unnecessary heat sources in the warehouse—for example, using lighting systems that emit minimal heat. Additionally, the waste heat generated during cooling can be recovered and repurposed for other uses, such as space heating. 

24. Use of Multifunction Forklift Trucks  #

An effective solution in warehouse logistics is the use of multifunctional combined forklift trucks. One manufacturer has found that its multi-purpose forklifts help customers reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing the size of their fleet. These “three-in-one” forklifts can function as sideloaders (for handling long loads), counterbalance forklifts, and narrow aisle forklifts. Logistics companies using multifunction forklifts have combined forklift trucks with efforts to save space within warehouses, resulting in up to 50% more available storage space and a reduction in carbon emissions by an average of 80 tons per year. 

25. Truck Platooning – Convoy Driving with Autonomous Technology  #

Truck platooning is an innovative logistics approach in which multiple trucks drive in a tightly coordinated convoy. The lead truck is operated by a human driver, while the following trucks are semi-autonomous or fully autonomous. Connected through a wireless vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication system, the trucks synchronize their acceleration, braking, and steering in real time. 

One of the main benefits is reduced aerodynamic drag, which can result in fuel savings and a reduction in CO₂ emissions of up to 10–15%. Additionally, platooning improves road safety, as the system can react more quickly than a human driver. 

At the core of the concept is constant real-time data exchange supported by advanced sensors, including radar, cameras, and lidar. These technologies allow trucks to maintain a minimal yet safe following distance. Truck platooning is currently being piloted in several European countries, such as Germany and the Netherlands, and has the potential to transform long-distance road freight in the near future. 

26. ABC Inventory Management – A Simple and Effective Way to Optimize Inventory   #

ABC analysis is a straightforward yet powerful method for classifying, prioritizing, and managing inventory. Based on the Pareto principle—which suggests that roughly 80% of outcomes result from 20% of inputs—this method recognizes that a small portion of inventory typically accounts for the majority of value or sales. 

Inventory is divided into three categories: 

• Category A: The most valuable items, representing about 70–80% of total inventory value but only 10–20% of items. These require close monitoring, regular replenishment, and accurate forecasting. 

• Category B: Moderately important items that fall between A and C. These require periodic reviews and moderate attention. 

• Category C: The least valuable in terms of turnover, though they often make up the majority of inventory items. These can be managed with less frequent orders and stored in less accessible areas. 

ABC analysis also aids in optimizing warehouse layout: A-items should be stored near dispatch or picking zones, while C-items can be placed in more remote areas. This method is especially useful for small businesses, as it requires no expensive software yet significantly improves inventory control, reduces stockouts, and prevents overstocking. 

27. Reusable Insulated Delivery Containers Network  #

Reusable insulated delivery containers help maintain product quality by ensuring consistent temperature control during transport. A networked system for their use reduces the reliance on disposable packaging and cuts costs by promoting resource sharing. 

For example, cheese producers in mountainous regions often use returnable insulated boxes that are collected during subsequent deliveries. This practice minimizes packaging waste, improves sustainability, and enhances brand reputation among environmentally conscious consumers. 

28. Backhauling  #

Backhauling involves transporting goods on the return leg of a delivery journey, instead of returning with an empty vehicle. This can significantly improve vehicle utilization. 

For example, after delivering products to a distributor, an empty truck can be redirected to a nearby supplier to pick up raw materials. By reducing the number of empty trips, backhauling increases fleet efficiency, lowers transport costs for both suppliers and customers, and reduces the environmental impact of logistics operations. 

29. Backhauling 2.0   #

Backhauling 2.0 builds on the traditional concept by leveraging data-driven, AI-powered systems to dynamically optimize return loads in real time. It balances both economic efficiency and environmental considerations. 

Key features of Backhauling 2.0 include: 

• Predictive algorithms to forecast transport demand and potential return routes. 

• Real-time data processing, including traffic conditions, weather, load weight, and refrigeration requirements. 

• Open platforms that enable small businesses to participate in shared transport networks. 

• Implementation of a “green score” system to prioritize low-emission transport options. 

• Open advertising platforms where transport providers can search for available loads, and others can offer loads to be transported. 

This next-generation approach not only reduces operational costs but also significantly cuts the carbon footprint of logistics by minimizing unnecessary kilometers. It is particularly useful in sectors such as food logistics or retail, where return trips often involve underutilized capacity (e.g., returning empty containers or pallets). 

At the heart of Backhauling 2.0 is collaboration: multiple actors—including competitors—can connect their fleets through a shared digital system, creating a more efficient and sustainable transport network. 

30. Definition of Criteria for the Right Vehicle  #

When evaluating business needs that influence the purchase of commercial vehicles, it is essential to assess a range of criteria that directly impact operational efficiency and overall cost-effectiveness. A thorough evaluation ensures the acquisition of vehicles that are well-suited to specific transport requirements. 

Order volume: Vehicles that are too large may result in wasted space and unnecessary fuel consumption, while those that are too small require more trips to deliver the same volume, increasing costs and emissions. 

Delivery area: Urban deliveries typically require smaller, more maneuverable vehicles due to traffic congestion and limited parking, whereas larger vehicles are better suited for rural or long-distance routes. 

Drive type: Electric delivery vans offer numerous advantages—they reduce fuel costs, lower the ecological footprint, and enhance a company’s environmental reputation. In many cases, subsidies or incentives are available for electric vehicle purchases. 

Maintenance requirements: High maintenance costs can quickly become a financial burden. Opting for reliable vehicles with lower maintenance demands reduces downtime and long-term expenses. 

Additional considerations: Factors such as parking availability, toll charges, vehicle safety features, local traffic regulations, and congestion patterns also play a role in selecting the most appropriate vehicle. 

31. Sustainable ’Last Mile’ Delivery  #

Last-mile delivery is a critical component of the supply chain, particularly in Europe, where densely populated urban areas, diverse infrastructure, and strict environmental regulations present unique logistical challenges. The term “last mile” refers to the final stage of delivery—when a product is transported from a local producer, distribution centre, hub, or retail location directly to the customer’s doorstep. Although it covers only a short physical distance, the last mile is often the most complex and costly part of the entire delivery process. It requires careful coordination and responsiveness to customer expectations for speed, accuracy, and convenience. As these expectations continue to grow, optimizing last-mile delivery has become a strategic priority for retailers, logistics providers, and urban planners alike. 

32. Use of Parcel Lockers and Pickup Points  #

An effective solution to reduce inefficiencies in last-mile delivery is the use of centrally located cooled parcel lockers or local pickup points, such as kiosks, partner stores, or post offices. These options reduce failed delivery attempts, minimize the need for repeated trips, and ease pressure on urban traffic networks. 

This system is especially beneficial in cities where parking is limited or customer availability during delivery windows is low. It allows customers to retrieve parcels at their convenience, enhances delivery reliability, and reduces vehicle traffic in residential areas. 

Moreover, parcel lockers promote trip chaining—the practice of combining multiple errands into a single outing—further increasing the sustainability potential of this delivery model. 

33. Crowdshipping    #

Crowdshipping leverages independent couriers—such as freelancers, local commuters, or gig workers—to deliver parcels within a limited radius. This flexible model enables same-day or even one-hour delivery options in urban areas without the need for a large, dedicated vehicle fleet. It allows retailers to scale delivery capacity up or down quickly while reducing fixed costs. Additionally, crowdshipping often uses environmentally friendly modes of transport such as bicycles or public transit, contributing to lower emissions and more sustainable logistics. 

34. Neighbor Parcel Pickup („friendly drop”)  #

Neighbor parcel pickup—also known as friendly drop—is an innovative last-mile delivery model that relies on community collaboration. If the recipient is not home at the time of delivery, the courier can leave the parcel with a pre-registered neighbor or acquaintance nearby. 

Participants sign up via a digital platform and agree to temporarily receive parcels on behalf of nearby residents. Recipients can then collect their packages at a convenient time. 

Benefits include: 

• Fewer failed deliveries by solving the “not at home” issue. 

• Faster and more efficient service with no need for reattempts or rescheduling. 

• Strengthening of local community bonds through cooperation and trust. 

• Greater flexibility for customers, who no longer need to stay home and wait for their packages to arrive. 

This model is especially effective in small towns, villages, or residential neighbourhoods where local collaboration is more natural and widely trusted. 

35. Time-Window Delivery Scheduling   #

Allowing customers to select specific delivery time windows increases the success rate of first-attempt deliveries and minimizes the need for redeliveries. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also enables logistics providers to optimize delivery routes. 

By clustering deliveries based on time slots and geographic areas, companies can reduce travel time, lower emissions, and provide a more personalized and reliable service.  

36. Off-peak Hours Deliveries  #

Delivering goods during off-peak hours—particularly at night—can significantly reduce traffic-related delays and improve delivery speed. With quieter roads, vehicles can complete routes more efficiently and predictably. While this approach requires careful planning—including noise reduction measures and coordination with local authorities—it is especially effective in busy urban areas where daytime deliveries are often disrupted. 

This strategy works particularly well in combination with parcel lockers and pickup points (021a), especially (cooled) lockers that require no staff during delivery. Since no one needs to be present at the time of drop-off, nighttime delivery becomes both practical and efficient. 

37. Last-Mile Delivery Tailored to Product Type  #

Last-mile delivery can be optimized by adapting transportation methods to specific product types: 

• Refrigerated products are delivered by electric vans equipped with refrigeration systems. 

• Non-refrigerated products are transported using cargo bikes or electric bicycles (e-bikes). 

• Optimized routes are determined by algorithms that reduce distance traveled and minimize CO₂ emissions. 

Benefits: 

• Use of transportation methods tailored to the type of product. 

• Lower emissions and noise levels in urban areas. 

• Support for sustainable urban mobility. 

38. Use of Cargo Bicycles   #

The sustainability of delivery operations in AFNs is significantly enhanced through the integration of zero-emission options such as cargo bikes, cargo scooters, and electric vehicles. These eco-friendly alternatives not only support environmental objectives but also improve the long-term efficiency and viability of delivery systems—contributing to a greener, more sustainable food supply chain. 

In congested cities with narrow streets, cargo bikes offer an excellent delivery solution. Studies have shown that electric cargo bikes can travel up to 60% faster than vans in city centers. They also reduce carbon emissions by 90% compared to diesel vans and by one-third compared to electric vans. 

With both traditional and electric versions, bicycles lower the cost and time of home delivery, help alleviate urban congestion, and reduce pollution. They do not require parking spaces, avoid parking fees, and are cheaper to purchase, operate, and maintain than motor vehicles. 

39. Integrated Demand Forecasting and Production Planning  #

Integrated demand forecasting and production planning tools allow producers to align their output with real-time local demand. This approach reduces waste, prevents overproduction, and optimizes logistics by consolidating orders across multiple producers. 

For example, a regional network of vegetable growers can collectively use forecasting tools to plan weekly harvest volumes based on aggregated orders from online platforms and local markets. The benefits include lower transport costs, improved product freshness, and reduced spoilage. 

40. General Improved Digitalisation in Company Processes   #

Beyond attracting new customers—many of whom frequently become regular buyers—digital advertising enhances the cooperative’s visibility and strengthens brand recognition. 

More importantly, advanced digitalisation significantly improves logistics and order management workflows. In particular, it streamlines order processing in B2B transactions, enabling faster confirmations, automated invoicing, and accurate scheduling of deliveries. Digital tools also provide real-time insights into stock levels, order history, volume, and transaction value, supporting better demand forecasting and inventory planning. 

Key effects: 

• Improved logistics coordination and operational efficiency through automated and integrated systems. 

• Faster and more accurate order fulfilment, reducing delays and human error. 

• Increased transparency across the supply chain, benefiting both the cooperative and its partners. 

• Greater environmental sustainability by reducing paper usage, transport inefficiencies, and energy consumption associated with manual systems. 

41. Package size Optimisation with AI  #

Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly widespread in many fields, including logistics. Companies can use AI to optimise both transport and packaging. AI technologies can determine the optimal package size for each shipment based on the contents and vehicle capacity, reducing packaging material use by up to 30%. 

This approach is not only cost-effective but also minimizes waste and improves load efficiency—leading to better trucking-capacity utilization and lower carbon emissions. 

In practice, some companies use AI systems that scan incoming orders and combine them into the most efficient box size, while others have developed adaptive packaging lines that adjust box dimensions automatically. 

Additionally, some logistics providers apply AI to optimize van and truck loading, grouping shipments from multiple clients to reduce empty space and improve route efficiency. These solutions result in material savings, reduced delivery costs, and enhanced sustainability throughout the supply chain. 

42. Collaborative Logistics Platforms   #

Collaborative logistics platforms are digital systems designed to connect various logistics stakeholders—shippers, carriers, warehouse operators, and customers—through a shared interface. Their primary goal is to optimize the use of existing resources—such as vehicles, storage space, and delivery routes—by minimizing empty runs and increasing supply chain efficiency. 

How it works: 

• If a transporter has a half-full truck, the platform can automatically match the available space with shipments from other companies. 

• The same applies to warehouse space: businesses with excess capacity can rent it out temporarily through the platform. 

• These platforms often include features such as real-time tracking, route optimization, and digital contracting, making logistics operations faster, more efficient, and transparent. 

This approach is particularly valuable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may not have access to large-scale logistics infrastructure. By participating in a digitally coordinated, resource-sharing network, they can improve their competitiveness and reduce operational costs. 

43. Open Source Software for Collaborative Logistics  #

One common approach adopted by AFNs is the use of human and social capital to collaboratively develop open-source software tailored to their specific needs. These solutions are often created by foundations, public institutions, NGOs, and individual volunteers. 

Open-source platforms offer lower operational costs compared to commercial software, and AFNs often have better access to funding and technical support due to their social and environmental missions. 

The functionality of such systems can be customized to support: 

• Order management 

• E-commerce 

• Warehouse management 

• Smart contracts (for public procurement and B2B transactions) 

• Transport and delivery route optimization 

44. Online Shopping Multi-Producer Platform  #

A shared online shopping platform enables multiple producers to sell their products through a single digital interface. Customers can place orders from several suppliers in one session and complete the transaction with a single, aggregated online payment. Orders are then consolidated and delivered to the customer according to the delivery terms defined by the producers. 

A key advantage of such a joint platform is the broad product selection, often accompanied by detailed descriptions and information about product origins. Certificates and quality labels are also available when applicable. 

A user-friendly website interface enables local producers to reach a wider customer base while simplifying logistics by consolidating orders across multiple suppliers. 

45. Collaborative Transportation Models  #

Collaborative transportation models enable multiple producers, cooperatives, or small food enterprises to share transportation resources. By coordinating delivery routes, consolidating shipments, and sharing vehicle use, producers can reduce empty runs and improve load utilization. This approach not only lowers transportation costs but also reduces fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. 

Collaboration can take several forms: 

• Shared vehicles operated by a cooperative or third party. 

• Joint delivery schedules coordinated through digital tools. 

• Pooling of orders destined for common retailers, markets, or consumer groups. 

Clear communication, fair cost-sharing agreements, and the use of logistics coordination platforms are key to aligning routes, delivery times, and responsibilities. 

46. Interoperable Transport Planning Software  #

A key enabler of collaborative transportation among different producers, consumer groups, or AFNs is the interoperability of transport and logistics planning software. 

Ideally, such software is compatible with various systems used across a region and offers cost-effective integration. It gathers origin and destination data, shipment sizes, and logistical characteristics from participating actors and proposes optimized transport solutions. 

Advanced features may include blockchain integration and the use of smart contracts to automate and secure payments. This enhances trust, transparency, and efficiency in shared logistics systems

47. Data-Driven Decision-Making Leverages  #

Data-driven decision-making relies on real-time information to enable logistics professionals to respond quickly to shifts in demand, supply chain disruptions, or unexpected events. It pulls data from various logistics processes, including: 

• Cost per delivery: Tracks each delivery’s cost breakdown—base rate, fuel surcharge, and ancillary fees—to identify rising expenses. 

• Carrier performance: Measures the time from when the order is handed to the carrier to final delivery, assessing efficiency and reliability. 

• Delivery time: Analyzes the full order-to-delivery cycle, identifying bottlenecks and opportunities to improve operational efficiency. 

Using such metrics supports more informed planning, enhances accountability, and allows for continuous improvement of logistics operations. 

48. Swarm Logistics – Collective Intelligence in Freight Transport  #

Swarm logistics applies the principles of swarm intelligence—observed in nature among ants, birds, or fish—to decentralized freight transport systems. In this model, delivery units such as electric cargo bikes, drones, or small vans operate autonomously yet cooperatively, guided by a decentralized control system. 

Unlike traditional logistics, which depend on centralized planning, swarm logistics relies on distributed decision-making. Each unit evaluates real-time data independently while considering the position, behavior, and load of other units in the system. This allows the network to dynamically adapt to changes such as traffic congestion, canceled deliveries, or urgent service requests. 

The key advantages are flexibility and resilience. If one vehicle fails or drops out, others can seamlessly take over its tasks. This makes the system especially well-suited for urban logistics, last-mile delivery, and any scenario that demands rapid response and continuous optimisation. With advancements in AI and IoT technologies, swarm logistics is becoming an increasingly viable and transformative solution in the logistics sector.  

49. Blockchain-Based Transparent Traceability Systems  #

Blockchain technology can be used to track a product’s journey from farm to consumer, capturing key information such as storage conditions, transport details, and sustainability data. By sharing these records across all supply chain partners, blockchain enhances transparency, reduces the risk of fraud, and improves logistics coordination. This builds consumer trust and strengthens accountability throughout the supply chain. 

50. Shaping the Demand  #

Irregular use of resources—such as personnel, vehicles, or storage facilities—can severely affect operational efficiency and predictability. These fluctuations often lead to capacity peaks, which complicate planning, create bottlenecks, increase costs, and reduce customer satisfaction. 

To mitigate these challenges and improve delivery planning—especially during predictable high-demand periods like public holidays—several strategic measures can be implemented: 

• Special offers to influence demand for specific products. 

• Price incentives for longer delivery times or flexible delivery windows. 

• Encouraging off-peak deliveries. 

• Premium pricing for high-priority or time-specific deliveries. 

However, to implement these strategies effectively, it is crucial to monitor and forecast capacity utilization in advance. This allows for timely adjustments in marketing and pricing strategies.  

51. Dynamic Route Sharing Platform  #

A dynamic route sharing platform is a digital tool that allows small producers and local couriers to collaboratively manage deliveries based on real-time demand. Producers input their delivery needs, and the platform matches them with couriers who have available capacity on similar routes. 

Benefits include: 

• Lower transport costs 

• Fewer empty trips 

• Reduced emissions through optimized route planning 

This solution supports more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective local delivery systems, particularly in decentralized or rural markets..