Blockchain-based applications in shipping and port management: a literature review towards defining key conceptual frameworks

Sergey Tsiulin,Olli-Pekka Hilmola,Ahmed Karam,Kristian Hegner Reinau,Nikolay Goryaev

doi:10.1108/ribs-04-2019-0051

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine and to categorize the tendencies of blockchain-based applications in the shipping industry and supply chain as well as the interrelations between them, including possible correlation of found categories with theoretical background and existing concepts. This study also explores whether blockchain can be adopted into existing maritime shipping and port document workflow management.Design/methodology/approachThe current study builds a conceptual framework through a systematic project review carried along with scientific and grey literature, published in journals and conference proceedings during the past decade and giving information or proposals on an issue.FindingsThe results showed that reviewed projects can be compiled into three main conceptual areas: document workflow management, financial processes and device connectivity. However, having clear interlinkages, none of the reviewed projects consider all three areas at once. Concepts associated with maritime document workflow received broad support among the reviewed projects. In addition, reviewed projects unintentionally follow the similar goals that were laid down within port management scientific projects before the introduction of blockchain technology.Originality/valueThis study contributes to research by revealing a consistent framework for understanding the blockchain applications within maritime port environment, a less-studied part of blockchain implementation in the supply chain field. Moreover, this work is the first to find out conceptual intersections and correlations between existing projects, mapping current tendencies and potentially increasing knowledge about the field.

Highlights

In recent years, mass digitalization, rapid development and advanced usage of the Internet have been among the greatest drivers of business development and coordination, process optimization and cost reduction
How does blockchain technology affect shipping and port logistics and what are the possible scenarios of its implementation? For the search of this review, having no particular date range set, all literature is dated between 2015 and April 2019 with the number of journal publications and projects increasing over the years
Grey literature in the form of commercial projects focused on blockchain in shipping showed a variety of conceptual frameworks, which can be generalized into three scenario-categories: document workflow management, financial processes and device connectivity

Summary

Introduction

Mass digitalization, rapid development and advanced usage of the Internet have been among the greatest drivers of business development and coordination, process optimization and cost reduction. According to Tsiulin et al (2017), in terms of in-city transportation and terminal operating, current problems are primarily related to massive urban sprawl and increased turnover of trade, lack of operational information and stakeholder acceptability. It affects planning (Vidal Vieira and Fransoo, 2015). The research by Vidal Vieira and Fransoo (2015) and Nordtømme et al (2015) showed that problems with fleet and route planning, delay, damaged goods and theft, unsuitable terminal unloading and parking areas are partially connected to lack of cooperation between logistics service operators, local authorities and goods receivers

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