Crowdsourcing and sharing economy models in urban logistics

Abstract

Background and aim: Rapid urbanization and e-commerce growth subject urban logistics to immense pressure, causing negative environmental and economic externalities. This study aims to analyze and conceptualize the applicability of shared models and crowdsourcing in urban logistics, assessing their potential to enhance efficiency and sustainability, emphasizing transition markets like Bulgaria; Scope: The scope covers urban logistics, shared economy frameworks, and crowdsourcing in transition economies, limited primarily to Bulgaria's specific institutional and market barriers; Methods: The multi-component methodology includes systematic review, conceptual modeling (Physical Internet and Hyperconnected City Logistics), system dynamics, behavioral analysis, and game theory; Results: Results indicate transitioning to shared urban logistics and crowd logistics paradigms is essential for a cleaner, more efficient environment; Conclusions: However, implementing these models faces serious institutional and market barriers in Bulgaria, requiring public authorities to shift from traditional restrictive approaches to proactive regulation and partnership. Originality: This study bridges a gap in the literature by systematically applying advanced logistics paradigms (HCL and PI) to the structural and cultural specifics of a transition market (Bulgaria). Practical implications: Findings provide a strategic foundation for municipalities to optimize Sustainable Urban Logistics Plans (SULPs) and regulatory frameworks.