Utilization of Blockchain Electronic Bills of Lading in the 4IR Era: An Empirical Study

Purpose: This paper evaluates the factors influencing the adoption and use of blockchain’s electronic bill of lading (e-B/L) in the trade and logistics industry, assessing its practical acceptability and suggesting future research directions. Research design, data, and methodology: This paper developed a research model based on prior studies and technology acceptance models, and used survey data from Korean trade and logistics firms to identify factors influencing e-B/L adoption. Results: Availability and suitability of a blockchain e-B/L influences its perceived ease of use positively, while security and suitability influences perceived usefulness positively. Both perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness had a positive impact on the intention to use. Conclusions: This paper provides practitioners and researchers in the field of trade logistics with in-depth insights into the key factors influencing the adoption and utilization of a blockchain e-B/L, and provides a useful basis for future research and practical decisions.