# Overcoming the Technological Barriers in the Blockchain Supply Chain for Small Carriers
###### Abstract  
The current trend in supply chain development requires the application of new knowledge to meet the challenges posed by new technologies. One such technology is blockchain, which facilitates supply chain solutions through the use of innovative data transfer, storage, and verification systems. However, the use of blockchain can be challenging for certain stakeholders, such as small carriers, who may lack the necessary technical expertise or access to the technology. In this paper, we explore the potential for engaging small carriers that provide services within the blockchain supply chain but face technological barriers. We identify the technological barriers and opportunities for these carriers to participate, focusing on a case study of a small carrier that transports temperature-sensitive cargo. As one of the innovations, we proposed a classification according to three types of control levels, which are of fundamental importance in blockchain applications. In addition, we tested in-vehicle temperature measurement for use in cold chains and stored the transaction in a distributive ledger application in blockchain. blockchain; supply chain; technological barriers; small carriers; technology +
Footnote †: journal: Applied sciences  
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Footnote 1: institutetext: Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, University of Zilina, Univerzitna 8215/1, 010 26 Zilina, Slovakia; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (D.R. ); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (M.C.) 2024  
on this technology are also interesting [6]. Blockchain technology can also work on the principle of tokens. A digital token is a tool that allows users to exchange verifiable data in different ways. Tokens within the blockchain allow for a programmable representation of digital assets. Token units are meant to serve as digital coins. Transferring token units means removing or debiting funds from the sending account balance and adding or crediting them to the receiving account balance [7]. Blockchain has gained a lot of attention with its architecture, specific features (immutability of data once stored, real-time data sharing, distribution, decentralised, etc. ), and especially the ability to store, keep, and share any data (not just finance). Many researchers have researched the areas in which this technology can be applied. Several authors have conducted a review of blockchain applications [8; 9; 10; 11; 12]. They have demonstrated that the range of applications is extensive. For example, healthcare (health records, verification of 'doctors' qualifications, telemedicine), government (smart city, voting, education, property management), areas of autonomous vehicles, AI, machine learning, big data, maintenance (together with digital twin), and supply chain. The energy sector could be one of the industries most affected shortly [13]. However, as this technology is based on data sharing, we must point out that each area must be entirely digital and operate based on the Internet. Therefore, one of the main areas of implementation is the Internet of Things (IoT). Our paper focuses on the area that can benefit the most from blockchain implementation: the supply chain. Several stakeholder groups are somehow involved in the supply chain process. There are manufacturers who supply the original product. There are the carriers who transport the product, the warehouses that store the product, and the final points of sale, where the product reaches the customer. Especially for a specific type of carrier that is not equipped with a technological background, however, getting involved in blockchain may pose a problem. Therefore, it is important that the ecosystem itself be created universally for all potential stakeholders. Hence, various parties in a supply chain need to trust each other, even if they 'don't know each other. However, the interactions between these parties can often result in high costs, loss of trust, long delivery times, excess consumption, environmental pollution, etc. This is where blockchain can be beneficial.