THE SPECIFICS OF THE LAST MILE IN THE B2C SEGMENT

One of the issues related to e-commerce and included in the list of logistical aspects is the last mile related to the B2C segment. The last mile in the B2C segment is crucial, because it directly affects customer satisfaction; it is often the most expensive and difficult stage of delivery, since it involves navigation through increasingly urbanized and transport-congested cities; It plays an important role for the environment (the expansion of the use of the last mile has led to an increase in the traffic of freight vehicles in cities, and, accordingly, to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions). Consequently, the last mile in the B2C segment requires considerable attention in terms of scientific study.The article gives one of the definitions of the last mile related to the B2C segment. The generalized characteristics of such a last mile are characterized. The device of the last mile in the B2C segment is presented. The elements providing pickup in the last mile are analyzed. The features inherent in digitalization in the last mile related to the B2C segment are revealed. The specific elements of the formation of the cost of the last mile in this segment are given. A comparison of the options for cooperation in the last mile related to the B2C segment: outsourcing and crowdsourcing. The problems that companies face when it comes to the last mile in the B2C segment and the challenges facing the last mile in the B2C segment are listed. The ways of reducing the operating costs for the last mile in the B2C segment are indicated: combining several deliveries to a specific area of the city; using micro-fulfillment centers, i.e. small warehouses located next to customers; optimizing the routes of each cargo van; operating autonomous electric cargo vehicles, platforms, cargo drones, robot couriers; using cargo trucks whenever possible. bicycles. The main questions that should be asked when choosing a carrier for the last mile related to the B2C segment are mentioned. The article concludes with a conclusion.