Lateral Transshipment Application in TunisAI: A Case Study of the Company "SODEA"
Purpose: This study examines the role of lateral transshipment in optimizing the export of Tunisian oranges to the French market. Particular attention is given to the consolidation of orange shipments from multiple Tunisian producers and the contribution of this logistics practice to transport efficiency, product quality, shipment reliability, and the competitiveness of Tunisian citrus exports. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study adopts a logistics and supply-chain perspective to analyse the contribution of lateral transshipment to the organization of Tunisian orange exports. The analysis focuses on the consolidation of shipments before export, including the pooling of volumes from different producers, coordination among producers and exporters, shipment planning, traceability, refrigerated storage, and modern packaging operations. The case of SODEA, a Tunisian company established in 1995 and active in the packaging, pre-packaging, and export of fruits and vegetables, is used to illustrate the practical application of these logistics practices, particularly in the export of Maltese oranges to France. Findings: The analysis indicates that lateral transshipment can improve the efficiency and reliability of Tunisian orange exports by consolidating shipments before loading and reducing the incidence of partial shipments, transportation costs, and logistical delays. Shipment pooling also facilitates more regular deliveries to export ports and contributes to maintaining the freshness and quality of oranges during international transportation. In addition, the practice supports improved coordination among producers and exporters, strengthens traceability and shipment planning, and enables exporters to respond more effectively to fluctuations in production and market demand. The SODEA case further illustrates how refrigerated storage, fruit sorting and sizing, and modern packaging facilities can support compliance with international quality requirements and contribute to the positioning of Tunisian oranges in the French market. Practical Implications: The findings suggest that lateral transshipment can constitute an effective logistics strategy for improving the competitiveness of Tunisian citrus exports. Producers and exporters can benefit from shipment consolidation through lower logistics costs, improved capacity utilization, better delivery reliability, and reduced product losses. Strengthening coordination among producers, exporters, logistics providers, and export-port operators could further improve the efficiency of the Tunisian citrus supply chain and enhance its ability to serve European markets. Originality/Value: This study highlights the importance of shipment consolidation and lateral transshipment in the international marketing of Tunisian citrus products. By linking logistics coordination with export competitiveness and product quality, the study provides practical insights into how collective shipment organization and integrated cold-chain and packaging operations can strengthen the position of Tunisian oranges in the French market.