The Blockchain Effect on Courier Supply Chains Digitalization and Its Contribution to Industry 4.0 within the Circular Economy

Abstract

The goal of this research is to investigate blockchain technology’s influence on digitizing courier supply chains and advancing Industry 4.0, which leads the digitization revolution by integrating blockchain to digitize processes that would serve the circular economy. It evaluates how blockchain enhances transparency, traceability, and digital processes in logistics, promoting sustainability through waste reduction and improved reuse. The study aims to identify the benefits and challenges of blockchain integration, develop a conceptual framework, and provide actionable insights to improve supply chain management, operational efficiency, and sustainability. This research uses a qualitative research method including a literature review as well as interviews for case studies to explore both the benefits and challenges when applying blockchain technology in courier organizations in Industry 4.0 within the circular economy. The results show that blockchain technology can enhance the security, traceability, and efficiency of courier supply chains, reduce theft, error risk, and fraud, as well as facilitate specific process automation via smart contracts. Blockchain technology can support the digital transformation of logistics organizations and enhance circular economy networks in Industry 4.0 by enabling automation, transparency, traceability, and maintaining responsibility for the environment. This research is an exploration of the effect of blockchain technology on the courier supply chain in the logistics firms in Industry 4.0 within the circular economy and the development of a conceptual framework for usage. In addition, it capitalizes on both coordination and collaboration among players through decentralization to obtain maximum fruitful benefits.