Assessing the adoption of blockchain for international logistics service providers

Purpose This study investigates how perceived ease of use (PEOU) and perceived usefulness (PU) influence the adoption of blockchain technology in the shipping and logistics industry. It also seeks to identify and analyze the key factors that determine the PEOU of blockchain systems within maritime logistics. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research approach was employed using data collected from 578 managers working inlogistics and shipping firms in Vietnam. The study utilized the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as its theoretical foundation. Exploratory Factor Analysis, Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modeling were applied to validate the measurement model and test hypotheses. Findings Both PEOU and PU were found to have significant positive impacts on blockchain adoption. Six variables were identified as critical drivers of PEOU: user interface, smart contracts, security, transparency, transaction processing time and process simplification. Among these, process simplification, transparency and processing speed had the strongest effects on PEOU. Practical implications The findings provide actionable insights for system developers and shipping firms aiming to enhance blockchain adoption. Emphasizing user-friendly interfaces, workflow automation through smart contracts, improved transparency and streamlined operations can significantly increase user acceptance and system utilization within maritime logistics. Social implications As global supply chains demand higher levels of trust, transparency and sustainability, blockchain can play a transformative role in reducing fraud, improving traceability and promoting greener, paperless processes in the shipping industry–particularly in developing economies like Vietnam. Originality/value This study extends the TAM to the under-researched domain of maritime logistics by offering empirical evidence on blockchain adoption. It uniquely identifies and quantifies sector-specific drivers of PEOU, providing a validated model that can guide blockchain design and implementation in global shipping.