An application of multi-criteria data management approach for prioritisation of unwarranted causes of delay in international shipments

This study aims to identify, validate, and prioritise the causes of delayed clearance of imported cargo at the seaport with a viewpoint to recommend appropriate policy measures for the refining clearance process. The study adopted a three-fold approach for attaining the objectives. First, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify the causes of the delayed customs clearance. Second, the experts were interviewed to validate the identified causes in the context of Pakistan. Third, the study adopted the analytical hierarchical process (AHP) approach for prioritisation of the identified causes. The results of the study reveal that incomplete documentation, incorrect goods declaration, corruption, manipulation by customs brokers, and lack of procedural knowledge of the importer were the major hurdles in the timely clearance of imported cargo.