Blockchain adoption in container shipping: An empirical study on barriers, approaches, and recommendations

Abstract

Blockchain is an emerging technology in logistics and supply chain management. However, its adoption is still in a doldrum with limited success. This study explores container shipping service providers’ (CSSPs) current adoption status and perceived barriers in integrating blockchain applications before providing adoption recommendations. A qualitative analysis was conducted on thirty-two interviews with experts holding managing positions from container terminal operators, shipping companies, and freight forwarders. Thematic analysis was employed to extract and aggregate information from the qualitative database. This study revealed the difference between CSSPs’ perceptions of blockchain adoption barriers and, accordingly, their adopting approaches. A challenging implementing process for the current blockchain applications in container shipping was depicted with ten barriers and twenty-nine connections. Industry experts provided six recommendations for successful blockchain adoption to address the complicated situation. This paper deepens the knowledge about blockchain in supply chains, especially maritime logistics operations. It sheds light on the complexity of perceived adoption barriers, their effect on CSSPs’ approaches to blockchain applications, and potential digitalization policies to be taken.