Sustainable transport for business

Cargo bikes

A cargo bike is designed to carry goods, people or equipment. Many cargo bikes are now electrically assisted (an electric cargo bike) with a rechargeable battery which increases the distance they can travel, how much weight they can carry, and make it far easier to ride. They can be used to transport large and small items.

Learn about different types of cargo bikes and how to find the right cargo bike on the Energy Saving Trust website and in their e-cargo bike factsheet (PDF).

How to switch to cargo bikes

Trial and buy cargo bikes

Peddle My Wheels provide a low-cost Try Before You Bike option for trialling and purchasing cargo bikes for Islington businesses.

Hiring cargo bikes

If you will only need to use cargo bikes occasionally, you can hire an electric cargo bike by the minute from our community scheme OurBike. It's an easy way to efficiently transport small loads at an affordable price – and better for the environment.

Get free support to make the switch

You can get free support to assess how your business currently makes deliveries or delivers services and find cheaper and more reliable alternatives through the CargoShift Islington programme.

Why switch to cargo bikes

• Lower running costs compared to vans and no congestion or emission charges, CPZ parking permit or parking fees.
  More reliable because they can use bicycle lanes and can go through many traffic restrictions, avoiding the main roads.
• Better for the environment by helping cut local air pollution levels and reduced noise from traffic.
• Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability to your customers. Cargo bikes are easy to brand with your company logo.
• Better for the rider’s physical and mental health by adding in physical activity to the working day.

Other ways to make transport more sustainable

You could also:

• Consider suppliers that operate zero emission vehicles.
• Reduce the frequency of deliveries of some items.
• Team up with neighbouring businesses to use the same suppliers for items like stationery.