The purpose of this paper is to help decision-makers choose the location of a logistics platform with sustainability perspectives. This study presents a compensatory and partially compensatory approach to build composite indicators, using mainly fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making methods. In the first instance, the fuzzy full consistency method (F-FUCOM) was used to calculate the weight of the criteria and sub-criteria. In the second instance, two aggregation methods, namely the fuzzy multi-attribute ideal-real comparative analysis (F-MAIRCA) and the fuzzy preference ranking organization method for enrichment evaluation (F-PROMETHEE), were used to rank the location of a logistics platform. The novelty of the work lays in studying the impact of limited sustainability and weak sustainability on the location of a logistics platform. In this respect, the aggregation of various sustainability criterion in fuzzy compensatory and partially compensatory composite indicators is an innovative and interesting approach used to locate a logistics platform. The obtained results show that economic sustainability is the most important criterion for the selection of a logistics platform, followed by the environmental criterion. Obviously, the F-MAIRCA and F-PROMETHEE methods provided the same ranking orders. Finally, sensitivity analyses were performed to validate the robustness of the proposed approach.

The transportation sector significantly impacts economic development; however, its sustainability is challenged, particularly due to the increase in urban vehicle numbers and the associated negative consequences. In response, diverse evaluation methods have been introduced to assist decision-makers in assessing sustainability, accompanied by the development of numerous indicators to monitor the progress of sustainable transport systems. Consequently, the evaluation of the transport system has become crucial. This study conducts a comprehensive literature review on existing approaches used to assess transport sustainability through composite indicators. The analysis began by selecting articles using keywords like “sustainable transport”, “sustainability indicators”, “composite index”, and “assessment”. Subsequently, 61 relevant articles were identified, and only 47 studies from the period 2002–2022 were selected. The analysis was completed by synthesizing the literature and presenting the findings. The examination of literature trends revealed a limited focus on freight transport, with most studies concentrating solely on traditional sustainability dimensions. Additionally, the analysis highlighted the significant impact of various normalization, weighting, and aggregation methods on composite indicator results. Finally, recommendations for precise sustainability assessments are provided to guide future research endeavors.

Background: Urban freight transport has recently garnered significant attention from both professionals and academics due to its pivotal role in fostering economic and social development. Despite notable progress, this sector faces challenges that hinder its long-term sustainability. Addressing these issues and ensuring the lasting sustainability of urban freight transport require a thorough assessment and monitoring process utilizing specific indicators. Methods: This paper introduces a set of indicators developed using a three-step methodology aimed at assessing the sustainability progress of urban freight transport. Initially, we present a long list of indicators drawn from the existing literature. Subsequently, we consider five essential properties: achievability, data availability, predictability, relevance, and comprehensibility. Lastly, we apply a multi-criteria analysis methodology that utilizes these properties to assess the long lists encountered during the selection process. The chosen indicators are those that do not register a value of “0” for any of the specified properties. To enhance reliability, the indicators are collaboratively identified by a minimum of two experts. Results: By carefully selecting 18 indicators based on five sustainability dimensions (economic, environmental, social/societal, political, and spatial), our approach ensures a robust evaluation framework. Conclusions: These indicators serve as valuable tools for stakeholders in comprehensively evaluating the sustainability aspects of urban freight transport.