blockchain
The digital document workflow is simplified with a single, agreed and tamper-proof source of truth.
TradeLens is built with a permissioned blockchain to guarantee the immutability and traceability of shipping documents on the platform.
permissioned vs
permissionless blockchain
A platform for cooperation between businesses and authorities in the containerized freight supply chain.
learn how blockchain enables version control
A platform for cooperation between businesses and authorities in the containerized freight supply chain.
How blockchain enables version control
Publish a document
TradeLens utilizes a blockchain- based document store on IBM Cloud. Documents can be published to the platform though the TradeLens web UI or via a secure API protocol.
Storage and encryption
A readable version is saved to the TradeLens Document Store and an encrypted ‘hash’, or token (A), is saved to the blockchain ledger. Documents are searchable for 120 days from booking confirmation.
Retrieve and verify
Authorized users have direct access to documents. TradeLens compares a new document token (B) with a stored document token (A) to verify the authenticity and immutability of each retrieved document.
Permissionless blockchain
Permissionless blockchains are open ecosystems that let any user access and interact with the network.
Cryptocurrencies typically run on permissionless blockchains so they are distributed, transparent and able to offer nearly total anonymity.
Permissioned blockchain
Permissioned blockchains are private ecosystems in which only authorized users are granted access to join, view and publish data.
Permissioned users can securely record transactions and exchange information between one another. TradeLens uses a permissioned blockchain.