This paper presents a scheduling model to enhance cross-docking operations. It attempts to reduce the transshipment workload by minimizing the total number of products that require double-handling. We formalize the problem and represent its mathematical form. Moreover, we develop a variable neighborhood search heuristic to tackle large problems. Computational results depict the effectiveness of our algorithm. Finally, we examine the influence of terminal design and truck scheduling on transshipment workload and provide recommendations to manage cross-docking process. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.