Test bike delivery in the Capitale-Nationale region
Providing carriers with a logistics space at the gates of Old Quebec helped demonstrate the interest and feasibility of operating with cargo bikes.
Project description
Coop Carbone had shown, through modeling, that cycle logistics could be an effective solution in Quebec City, taking into account the local topography and urban density. Restricted access to Old Quebec, due to summer pedestrian zones and the narrow street layout, further increased the appeal of using cargo bikes, particularly for companies already active in cycle logistics in Montreal, such as Nationex and Purolator.
The provision of a vacant space by the City of Quebec allowed testing the feasibility of bike delivery operations during the summer of 2024. Located on the outskirts of Old Quebec, the space was minimally adapted to accommodate cargo bike storage, as well as the sorting and temporary storage of parcels. Nationex trialed a delivery route serving Old Quebec, while Purolator covered this area as well as part of the Lower Town.
Results and learnings
The last mile by bike is effective!
The delivery rounds were completed in less time than expected, allowing other areas to be served by bike on the same day.
Delivery Team Positive Feedback
The bike couriers appreciated the operating method, finding it more enjoyable than the usual van, especially for getting around Old Quebec.
Scaling and Sustainability
The project confirmed the willingness to scale up and sustain bike operations in Quebec City. The process of finding a permanent urban logistics space began quickly.
Challenges
Accessibility Challenges
As the space was located on a steep slope, using a cart to transfer parcels proved too dangerous during the winter due to snow accumulation and ice formation. The site’s unsuitability for winter use thus led to the end of the pilot project.
Real estate
Finding a suitable logistics space in the upper town that meets the feasibility criteria for a good cycle logistics site and allows for the permanent servicing of Old Quebec has proven to be a tedious task.
This pilot project was made possible thanks to the collaboration of:
Coop Carbone
Project Lead
Ville de Québec
Financial Support and Partner
Nationex
Partner
Purolator
Partner
Interested in a project or have any questions?
Contact us, and we’ll be happy to discuss it further.