Commercial transport in urban areas

Commercial traffic is essential to a functioning economy and a prosperous society. The Swiss population benefits from this every day: shop shelves are well stocked with our favourite goods, waste is regularly disposed of, and packages ordered online are delivered to our homes. The same traffic also places a burden on the transport system, society and the environment. However, little research has been done on what actually constitutes commercial traffic, which is why there is little discussion on how to deal with it in Switzerland.

Definition and segmentation of commercial
traffic

Commercial traffic refers to the movement of goods and persons for commercial and professional purposes. This primarily means supply and disposal services for trade, commerce and industry, and the public sector.

Traffic for business purposes includes all journeys made under the responsibility of private undertakings. Traffic for professional purposes includes all journeys made under the responsibility of public institutions. Thus, commercial traffic covers both private and public sector journeys. However, the journey must have a business or professional purpose. Commuting to and from workplaces is not covered by this definition.

Commercial traffic comprises the four segments goods traffic, passenger traffic and services traffic with and without goods (see Figure 1). The segments are not defined by the vehicles used, but primarily by the purpose. Around 16.5 per cent of all road traffic today is commercial traffic.

Challenges for urban commercial traffic

Commercial traffic is often perceived to be a hindrance. Managing it has until now been a low priority among the general public and politicians, even though it plays such a key role in the economy and society. However, this type of traffic also places a burden on the transport system, society and the environment. We therefore need to take a more precise look at the challenges involved, in order to respond appropriately (see Figure 2).