Evaluating Port-to-ICD Logistical Bottlenecks and Their Impact on Customs Clearance Delays at EX NASACO Inland Container Depot, Tanzania

Oscar Nguvumali; Eliamini Kasembe

doi:10.18535/sshj.v9i09.1972

Abstract

Inland Container Depots (ICDs) extend seaport capacity but often shift congestion inland. This study investigates how port-to-ICD logistical bottlenecks prolong customs-clearance at EX NASACO ICD in Dar es Salaam. Using a convergent mixed-methods design, 80 stakeholders (customs officers, freight forwarders, depot managers, traders) completed a five-item logistical-inefficiency survey (Cronbach’s α = .82). Descriptive statistics showed high means for arrival-pattern variability (µ = 4.16) and coordination gaps (µ = 4.03). Pearson’s correlation linked inefficiency to clearance time (r = .66, p < .01), and an OLS regression found each one-point inefficiency increase adds 0.28 days (~6.7 hours) to dwell time (β = .28, p = .001; adjusted R² = .56). Fifteen semi-structured interviews revealed fragmented scheduling, agency silos, and yard under-utilization as key delay drivers. Triangulation confirms that asynchronous release-note uploads and misaligned truck-slot assignments generate systemic delays that equipment investments alone cannot solve. The study recommends implementing a shared digital slot-booking dashboard, establishing a joint operations centre for real-time coordination, and adopting a port community system to synchronize workflows measures projected to cut average clearance by one-third and enhance regional trade facilitation.

Keywords

Port-to-ICD LinkageLogistical InefficiencyCustoms Clearance DelaysSlot-Booking SystemEX NASACO ICD

References

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[refR-4] Eliakunda, E., Kachwamba, O., & Luhanga, J. (2018). Customs clearance and trade facilitation in Tanzania. Journal of Transport and Supply Chain Management, 12(1), 1–10.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-5] Heaver, T. D., Meersman, H., & Van de Voorde, E. (2000). Co-operation and competition in international container transport: Research directions. Maritime Policy & Management, 27(3), 235–245.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-6] KenTrade. (2022). Mombasa ICD slot-booking pilot report. Kenya Trade Network Agency.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-7] Kothari, C. R. (2014). Research methodology: Methods and techniques (3rd ed.). New Age International.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-8] Mlinga, J., & Mahembe, B. (2014). Inland container depots and port performance: Evidence from Tanzania. African Journal of Economic and Management Studies, 5(2), 200–213.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-9] Mugisha, E. J. (2025). Assessment on the challenges facing effective customs clearance of goods at inland container depot (ICD): A case of EX NASACO ICD (Unpublished master’s thesis). Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-10] Notteboom, T., & Rodrigue, J.-P. (2005). Port regionalization: Towards a new phase in port development. Maritime Policy & Management, 32(3), 297–313.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-11] Oduro, R., & Boateng, E. (2020). Institutional barriers to port competitiveness: Lessons from Ghana. Journal of Transport Economics, 16(1), 45–62.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-12] Saghafian, S., & Fu, M. C. (2016). Dynamics of multiple-server queue with working vacations. Queueing Systems, 82(1), 1–24.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-13] Saghafian, S., & Oh, H. (2020). Scheduling and rescheduling of port operations. European Journal of Operational Research, 284(3), 993–1003.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-14] Suykens, F., & Van de Voorde, E. (1998). Container terminal performance: Does the academic literature reflect industry priorities? Maritime Policy & Management, 25(1), 43–53.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-15] Tashakkori, A., & Teddlie, C. (2010). Mixed methodology: Combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. SAGE.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-16] World Bank. (2023). Logistics performance index 2023. World Bank Group.Google Scholar ↗

[refR-17] Zhang, A., & Marlow, P. B. (2022). Evaluating the impact of port slot booking systems on container terminal efficiency. Maritime Economics & Logistics, 24(4), 562–585.Google Scholar ↗