Cross-Docking Practices and Distribution Efficiency in Senegal
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/ijscl.2530Keywords:
Cross-Docking Practices, Distribution EfficiencyAbstract
Purpose: The purpose of this article was to analyze cross-docking practices and distribution efficiency in Senegal.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: In Senegal, cross-docking has notably enhanced distribution efficiency despite infrastructural challenges. Firms employing cross-docking improved operational efficiency by up to 10% and reduced lead times by 13% through better load consolidation and real-time coordination. However, limitations in IT infrastructure and standardized protocols still hinder optimal performance. Overall, while cross-docking is transforming distribution networks, further investments are needed to sustain these gains.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Just-in-time (JIT) production theory, Supply chain integration theory & Diffusion of innovation (DOI) theory may be used to anchor future studies on cross-docking practices and distribution efficiency in Senegal. Organizations should standardize cross‐docking protocols and invest in advanced IT systems that support real‐time tracking and automated sorting to minimize handling times. Collaborative efforts between government, academia, and industry are essential to tailor these policies to current market realities.
Downloads
References
Abebe, T., & Mekonnen, S. (2021). Evaluating the efficiency of distribution networks in Ethiopia through digital integration. African Journal of Logistics, 12(2), 110–125. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajl.2021.02.003
Diop, A., & Ndiaye, M. (2019). Enhancing distribution network performance in Senegal with digital technologies. West African Journal of Transportation, 7(4), 75–88. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wajt.2019.04.007
Garcia, M., & Patel, S. (2018). Digital transformation and distribution efficiency in Indian logistics. Journal of Emerging Markets Logistics, 7(3), 210–225. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jeml.2018.03.007
Garcia, M., & Rojas, L. (2020). Digital logistics transformation and distribution efficiency in Chile. Latin American Journal of Transport, 18(2), 90–105. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lajt.2020.02.004
Johnson, L., & Lee, P. (2019). Advancements in integrated distribution management systems: Evidence from the UK. International Journal of Logistics Research, 12(1), 45–60. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijlr.2019.01.003
Kim, S., & Park, J. (2020). Impact of advanced logistics systems on distribution efficiency: Evidence from South Korea. International Journal of Supply Chain Management, 9(1), 85–100. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijscm.2020.01.005
Kumar, R., & Singh, P. (2020). Diffusion of innovative practices in logistics: The case of cross-docking. Journal of Business Logistics, 41(1), 75–90. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbl.2020.01.003
Kumar, R., & Singh, P. (2021). Survey analysis of cross‐docking practices and cost reduction in Indian logistics networks. Journal of Emerging Market Logistics, 9(1), 75–90. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jeml.2021.01.004
Lee, A., Chen, B., & Liu, C. (2018). Impact of cross‐docking on distribution efficiency in U.S. distribution centers. Journal of Supply Chain Management, 54(2), 210–225. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jscm.2018.03.010
Martinez, L., & Wilson, H. (2022). Standardizing cross‐docking protocols for enhanced distribution efficiency in Latin America. Latin American Journal of Logistics, 11(3), 120–135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lajt.2022.03.005
Mbeki, T., & Ndlovu, P. (2020). Integrated distribution management in South Africa: Efficiency gains and challenges. South African Journal of Logistics, 11(4), 300–315. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajl.2020.04.009
Mueller, T., & Steiner, R. (2021). Digital transformation and distribution network efficiency in Switzerland. Journal of European Logistics, 20(2), 150–165. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jel.2021.02.007
Nguyen, H., & Le, T. (2019). Efficiency gains in distribution networks: A case study of Vietnam's logistics industry. Journal of Asian Logistics, 11(3), 123–138. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jal.2019.03.012
Okafor, U., & Eze, K. (2019). Improving distribution efficiency in Nigeria through mobile-based solutions. African Journal of Transport and Logistics, 5(1), 50–66. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajtl.2019.01.008
Silva, R., & Moreira, F. (2018). E-logistics and distribution network efficiency in Brazil. Journal of Latin American Transportation, 9(2), 110–125. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jlat.2018.02.004
Smith, J., & Johnson, A. (2019). Cross-docking and its impact on distribution network efficiency. Journal of Supply Chain Management, 45(3), 210–225. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jscm.2019.03.005
Smith, J., Brown, K., & Davis, L. (2020). Collaborative planning and cross‐docking efficiency in multinational corporations. Journal of Global Supply Chain Management, 17(2), 180–195. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgscm.2020.02.010
Smith, J., Johnson, R., & Doe, A. (2018). Impact of digital logistics on distribution network efficiency in the United States. Journal of Supply Chain Innovation, 14(2), 123–135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jscin.2018.02.005
Wang, X., & Zhao, Y. (2020). Regression analysis of cross‐docking impact on lead times in Chinese logistics hubs. Journal of Operational Research, 16(4), 220–235. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jor.2020.04.003
Zhang, L., & Li, M. (2020). Supply chain integration and performance: Evidence from global distribution networks. International Journal of Supply Chain Management, 15(2), 180–195. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijscm.2020.02.010
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2025 Aminata Ndiaye

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC-BY) 4.0 License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgment of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal.