Where it started
The challenge
The published figures for transit times were years old and did not reflect recent changes at the borders, some for the better and some for the worse.
The group was about to commit capital to depots that would only pay off if goods moved as fast as the plan assumed. Its board wanted current, independent numbers first.
What we did
Our approach
- Measure the corridorWe tracked live shipments, interviewed hauliers and clearing agents, and timed each border crossing in both directions over several weeks.
- Model the optionsWe compared candidate depot locations on volume, cost and the likely effect of planned customs reforms, with a downside case for each.
- Brief the boardWe presented a ranked investment plan, with the risks for each location and the conditions under which we would change the order.
Where it ended
The outcome
The board approved investment in two depots, not the three originally planned, timed to open as new customs procedures came into force. The third site was held back until border times improve.
- 5border crossings studied
- 1,000 kmof corridor mapped
- 2depots approved
It was the first time we had numbers we could trust for every border.
Chief operating officer, logistics group
Mandate leadFatou SarrDirector, Trade policy, Dakar
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