Examining importers' perspective on containerised cargo handling delays at Dar es Salaam port

This study aimed to explore importers' views on delays in handling containerised cargo at the Dar es Salaam port. It sought to understand why, despite the growing importance of cargo handling for economic growth and port performance, countries like Tanzania still make limited efforts to address the issue. The underlying assumption was that cargo handling is crucial to a port's success, and improving it directly impacts economic growth, development, and overall performance. To investigate this, the study adopted a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative research, utilising a descriptive research design to collect data. Data were gathered through questionnaires, in-depth interviews, observation, and documentary reviews targeting a population comprising various port users, including importers, Dar es Salaam Port staff, clearing and forwarding agents and shipping lines. The collected data were analysed using SPSS software.
The findings highlight several issues related to containerised cargo handling at Tanzania's ports, notably bureaucracy, cargo clearance, and logistics management. These challenges are said to hinder port performance and negatively affect economic growth and customers’ perspectives. Additionally, the study revealed that delays are partly caused by insufficient technological equipment used in cargo handling. As a result, some countries have opted to avoid using Tanzania's ports due to these challenges. The study concluded by recommending that improving cargo handling is essential for boosting the performance of Tanzania's ports, increasing revenue, and supporting economic growth, development and customers’ perspectives.