Courier, express and parcel service providers (CEP service providers) have a crucial importance for the economy by handling flows of goods between businesses and private households. Challenges such as the increasing online sales, tighter delivery time requirements and growing competition along with the higher importance of environmental issues and political regulation result in an increased pressure to innovate in the CEP industry. Especially in urban areas various fields of innovation can be identified which can contribute to a more cost-efficient and environmentally friendly supply of companies and households in the city.