A Review Of Electronic System And Process Of Cargo Clearance: A Case Study Of The Port Of Tema

ABSTRACT Having appreciable knowledge and understanding of the custom cargo clearance at the various ports is critical to the operational activities of shippers and freight forwarders. This study sought to examine the electronic cargo clearance procedures at the Port of Tema. The study was at the port of Tema which handles about 80% of Ghana’s imports (GPHA, 2006). A mixed sampling techniques was used in sampling a total of 142 respondents for the study. The process initially sought to interview 175 respondent (95 shippers and 80 freight forwarders from an estimated population of 1200 shippers and 370 freight forwarder, and 3 officials from DIC, GCB, and GSL). A structured questionnaire and interview guides were used to sample 139 respondents consisting of 75 shippers, 64 freight forwarders who were randomly sampled, and 3 purposively sampled officials from Destination Inspection Company (DIC), Bank, and Customs division of Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). Results from data analysis revealed that majority of shippers (92%) were in favour of electronic cargo clearance at the Port. Majority of freight forwarders (68%) engaged in cargo clearance of goods. A sizeable number (15%) also engaged in transportation services. Also, majority of freight forwarders (84%) were in favour of electronic cargo clearance. In respect of the rationale for endorsing the electronic cargo clearance procedures, a high number of the shippers (32%) explained that it would reduce bureaucratic procedures associated with cargo clearance at the Port. Majority of the freight forwarder (34%) also explained that it would ensure efficiency of cargo clearance operations. In relation to measures to ensure effective implementation of the Ghana Community Network Services Limited (GCNet), the management officials generally proposed that shippers should get themselves acquainted with the clearance procedures and documentations and ensure that information they furnish the stakeholders is accurate to enable smooth cargo clearance process.