With a kick-off event on August 23, 2018, the IHATEC research project ROboB – Release Order based on Blockchain - was officially launched at DAKOSY, the operator of the Port Community System for the Port of Hamburg, in cooperation with the Technical University of Hamburg and numerous associated partners.

The release order, which is exchanged between the relevant parties during sea freight import, authorizes a transport company to pick up a container from the terminal. The enormous value of the goods transported in a container demands high security for access authorization and the related IT processes. Set against this backdrop, the clearance process is ideally suited to using blockchain technology: blockchain assures a common database for all participants. It can be verified by digital signatures, and through the use of cryptography and consensus algorithms, cannot be altered. Within the scope of the project, two alternative approaches will be integrated into the existing import platform of the Port of Hamburg and tested for their practical suitability - also in comparison to the existing solution. In addition to proof of feasibility, the project is also intended to contribute to making the processes in the seaport even more efficient.

ROboB is a joint project within the framework of the funding program for innovative port technologies (Innovative Hafentechnologien - IHATEC), which is funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI). TÜV Rheinland Consulting GmbH is the project manager. In addition to leading partner DAKOSY Datenkommunikationssystem AG, the Institute for Logistics and Corporate Management from the Technical University of Hamburg is also part of the network of partners. Renowned representatives from the shipping industry (freight forwarders, carriers and terminal operators) as well as several industry associations act as associate partners in order to guarantee practical and reliable assessment. The ROboB project will operate through January 31, 2020.