Application of fuzzy AHP for assessment of transitional barriers to electronic bill of lading

Abstract

Advances in technology have converted the traditional paper-based bill of lading into an electronic bill of lading (eBL) format in recent years. In this regard, different eBL systems have been introduced and are increasingly being employed in the maritime transportation industry. In line with this, some major container shipping lines have started to declare their eBL services to their customers recently. However, it has been observed that there have not been come across any Türkiye origin container shipping lines to utilize eBL systems. Therefore, considering container shipping lines of Türkiye, this paper sought to disclose the barriers to the transition of eBL systems in Türkiye. The barriers have been revealed through literature review and confirmed by industrial experts. Following that Fuzzy-AHP method was performed to prioritize their importance quantitatively. It was revealed that the legal barrier among the main barriers appeared as the most important barrier.