Tracking Operational Waste Along The Container Journey: A Lean-Based Qualitative Approach To Preparing For Digital Transformation At Seaport Container Terminals

Maritime container ports are essential hubs in the global logistics network and are increasingly pressured to improve performance within broader digital transformation agendas. However, persistent operational inefficiencies continue to limit throughput and competitiveness. The rapid growth in global trade, increasing vessel sizes, and fragmented coordination among stakeholders have intensified congestion, delays, and underutilization of resources across terminals. This paper aims to investigate operational inefficiencies throughout the entire container journey from seaside operations and yard handling to landside logistics using a Lean Waste Analysis approach as a structured diagnostic foundation for digital transformation initiatives. Central to this investigation is the use of process mapping through BPMN diagrams, which provide a structured and visual representation of the container flow. This mapping supports waste identification while enhancing transparency of operational interdependencies, a prerequisite for effective digital enablement. The methodology involves four stages: (1) macro-process mapping of the container journey; (2) identifying and analyzing key operational problems in container terminals based on scientific literature, benchmarking, and insights from Terminal XXI at the Port of Sines; (3) classifying these problems according to an adapted Lean waste framework; (4) proposing macro-level solutions to mitigate the main inefficiencies. The analysis organizes the identified inefficiencies into a structured classification of waste across terminal operations, highlighting bottlenecks and critical resource allocation issues. By positioning Lean diagnostics as a preparatory step toward digital transformation, the study contributes a practical framework to support operational improvement and strategically grounded modernization in container terminal logistics.