Investigating multi-parcel crowdsourcing logistics for B2C e-commerce last-mile deliveries

B2C e-commerce last-mile delivery (LMD) is a critical process, considering both efficiency and effectiveness: it implies high costs, online customers have stringent service level expectations. One promising LMD solution based on crowdsourcing logistics (CL) the ‘multi-parcel’ paradigm (each rider accomplishes different deliveries in same tour). This work analyses impact of multi-parcel CL costs compared to traditional by-van LMD. First, develops an analytical model that –generating customers’ demand assigning riders– computes costs. Second, applied case Milan, Italy. Third, sensitivity are run key variables/parameters. Multi-parcel entails significant benefits (about 11% saving). On academic side, this contributes literature, proposing investigates performances CL. managerial may support practitioners implementing innovative solution.