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The original was posted on /r/cryptocurrency by /u/pbjclimbing on 2023-07-17 18:19:07+00:00.

Tracking logistics through blockchain technology seems like a no-brainer use, and logistic blockchains should be a sure bet to succeed. Part of this is correct, logistics and blockchains make sense. Public logistic blockchains succeeding, on the other hand might not succeed on a large scale.

Private Logistic Blockchains

Private logistic blockchains, on the other hand, are doing quite well. Many companies have realized that they don't want their logistic information for all to see on a public blockchain, and they are not worried about decentralization, a main advantage of a public blockchain.

IBM

IBM is one of the leaders in private blockchain solutions. They have several products ranging from a global logistics blockchain collaboration with Maersk that has over 100 companies involved to their Food Trust program, which focuses specifically on the food supply chain.

Amazon Managed Blockchain

Amazon has its own logistics blockchain, Track and Trace, with one of the major customers being Nestle. They have products designed for mining, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Blockchain in Trucking Alliance

A group of many companies including FedEx and UPS to create blockchain standards and interoperability among the blockchain shipping solutions. A major goal is to provide interoperability with existing technology. There are blockchain members of this group too. UPS has patented its own blockchain technology and FedEx has started a blockchain pilot program.

Walmart

Yes, Walmart in China has a pilot with VET in China, but they have chosen to go in another direction for other blockchain solutions. Walmart Canada is using an in-house blockchain for shipping invoices and reconciliation. Walmart used Hyperledger Fabric to build a food traceability system that is being used in the US.

De Beers

De Beers developed and uses Tracr, a logistic blockchain, to track the origins and authenticity of its diamonds.

DHL

DHL uses different blockchain tech for different uses. They partnered with Accenture to build a pharmaceutical tracking blockchain. They are also working IBM and incorporating AI into their logistic blockchain.

Private vs Public Logistic Blockchain

There is some room for public logistic blockchains, but many large companies are choosing to go the private blockchain route. Smaller companies that do not want to run their own blockchain or use the blockchain used by their shipping partners could make inroads into the public blockchain sector.

VET and OriginTrail among others might succeed, but logistics make so much sense for blockchain technology that companies are developing their own.