Blockchain-Enabled Synchromodal Transport Network Optimization: Toward Enhanced Transparency

Blockchain technology, with its inherent decentralization and transparency, offers innovative solutions to current information-sharing challenges in synchromodal transport systems. This study first examines a synchromodal transport network under deterministic demand and investigates whether blockchain technology can enhance the connectivity among entities. An optimization model is developed to balance transparency and cost efficiency. The analysis is then extended to scenarios with uncertain demand, modeled using triangular fuzzy numbers. Chance-constrained programming and fuzzy goal programming are employed to address demand uncertainty while balancing the model’s dual objectives. Using an Asia–Europe transportation dataset, the model is solved via the CPLEX solver. The results indicate that blockchain significantly improves transparency in synchromodal transport networks, albeit with a moderate increase in operational costs. Under uncertain demand conditions, blockchain is effective in mitigating the adverse effects of demand fluctuations. From a managerial perspective, the findings suggest that governments should promote blockchain adoption in transportation, while enterprises should carefully evaluate their operational needs before implementation.