The Port of Rotterdam has received the first paperless, instantly financed and constantly tracked container from the DELIVER blockchain platform.
Having started its journey in Korea, the container arrived at Samsung SDS’s warehouse in Tilburg, the Netherlands, soon after reaching the Port of Rotterdam.
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ABN AMRO, Port of Rotterdam and Samsung SDS had previously proved that blockchain technology can facilitate interoperability.
The project also demonstrated that integrated container tracking and tracing, essential cargo documentation processing and efficient financing can all be completed in a trusted and safe manner without paper.
The proof of concept (PoC) showed that DELIVER can support cross-supply chain, end-to-end visibility for multi-modal cargo transport through ocean carrier, truck and inland barge shipping and streamline access to finance.
Samsung SDS EU/CIS deputy president Robert van der Waal said: “The first shipments to use the platform gave us a good insight into the possibilities of large-scale implementation.
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By GlobalData“As [the] cargo recipient, we benefitted from real-time information and advance availability of digitised cargo documentation.
“We can re-design our processes more efficiently, enabling us to act based on real-time events and trusted data. Ultimately, this will strengthen our service proposition to customers.”
The exchanging of information between physical and blockchain platforms will facilitate a global trade network, leading the way for the sharing of commercial, sensitive and confidential information, as well as the transfer of ownership between supply chain participants.
Working as a logistics service provider, Barge Terminal Tilburg organised and completed the haulage of the sea container from Port of Rotterdam to the Tilburg warehouse.
Barge terminal manager Iwan Maessen said: “The platform enables our company to use a uniform communications strategy to receive and share accurate information among supply chain members and use this to make better demand forecast decisions and identify the most suitable transportation mode for delivery.”
After successful completion of the PoC, ABN AMRO, Port of Rotterdam and Samsung SDS have signed an extended collaboration contract for the next phase of the DELIVER project.
As part of the deal, the partners will collaborate with various goods transporters from a range of industries, undertaking pilot projects with an ultimate aim to deliver an open, independent and global cargo shipping platform.
The partners noted that the use of blockchain technology will enhance transparency and efficiency in the supply chain, while saving millions of dollars in operational expenses.
