Logistics Sprawl: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

This article aims to describe the phenomenon of logistics sprawl and its impact on freight transport activity. We explore its dimensions, drivers, and consequences through an exhaustive literature review following the PRISMA guidelines. Our analysis reveals that logistics sprawl is mainly driven by economic and organizational factors. Then, we confirm its impact on urban freight transport activity as it leads to increasing traveled distances and environmental emissions, particularly CO2 emissions. This article contributes to the existing literature by providing a comprehensive structure and analysis of the logistics sprawl phenomenon. We have synthesized the primary research results and provided a systematic classification of logistics sprawl drivers and consequences, which was previously absent in the literature.