Moving goods and services by bike

Bikes are efficient, reliable and healthy ways to deliver and move goods and services in the city.

Many types of bikes can be used such as two-wheeled pedal bikes, bikes with trailers, cargo bikes, trikes, and electric-assist bikes.

Guidelines

Cargo bike specifications
Where to ride and park
Vancouver has an extensive network of designated bicycle routes to get to destinations more comfortably.

Download the cycling map (7 MB)

Where bikes are permitted

Bikes can travel on:
- Roads
- Bike lanes
- Most off street pathways
Use extra caution and slow down on pathways and spaces shared with pedestrians.

Where bikes are not permitted
- Bikes are not permitted to ride on sidewalks unless allowed by signage.
- Electric assist bikes are not permitted on the seawall (Seaside Greenway).
Bike parking spaces

Cargo bikes can park in spaces similar to other bicycles.
- Common parking spaces include the:
  - Boulevard/utility strip between a protected bike lane
  - Roadway or between the roadway and a sidewalk
Bikes must be walked on sidewalks to access boulevard parking areas.

Parked bikes must not block any portion of the clear sidewalk or bike path.

Cargo bikes can park in the boulevard/utility strip between a protected bike lane and roadway

Need to stop in commercial loading zones or lanes? Contact walkbikeroll@vancouver.ca

Cyclelogistics

The term “cyclelogistics” is used to describe the integration of bikes into the goods movement network to improve the efficiency and reduce the impacts of deliveries in cities. This use of bikes instead of trucks and vans is common in many cities around the world and is beginning to take off in Canada.

Review the Cargo Bike Guide for Businesses (2.7 MB) for more information on cargo bike styles, trends, benefits, regulations, and more.

Licenses and permits you need to operate a business with your bike

Bike couriers

Bike couriers operate a self-propelled bicycle to transport goods. Find out how to get your bike courier licence and renew your bike courier plate.

Pedicabs

Pedicabs are self-propelled or motor-assisted three-wheeled vehicles that transport up to two people (plus the driver). Find out how to apply for a pedicab licence.