In a world where supply chains are increasingly complex and unpredictable, the shipping industry is undergoing a seismic shift toward digitalization. Leading the charge is Ocean Network Express (ONE), a Singapore-based container shipping giant, as it embraces the Digital Container Shipping Association’s (DCSA) electronic bill of lading (eBL) standard. Partnering with the Global Shipping Business Network (GSBN), ONE is set to transform how global trade operates, making it faster, more efficient, and entirely paperless.

The Digital Transformation of Shipping

The adoption of eBLs is no small feat. Traditionally, shipping documentation has been a labyrinth of paper-based processes, with each carrier operating its own system. This fragmentation creates inefficiencies, delays, and headaches for customers managing international shipments across multiple carriers.

By adopting the DCSA’s eBL standard, ONE is streamlining this process. The new system allows customers to manage eBLs from multiple carriers on a single platform, using a unified identity. This not only simplifies onboarding but also significantly enhances workflow efficiency.

“We envision a future of paperless international trade,” says Kosuke Wada, Executive Vice President of ONE. “Our focus on innovation will drive operational efficiency, strengthen collaboration with ecosystem partners, and deliver added value to our customers.”

GSBN: The Backbone of Digital Innovation

At the heart of this transformation is GSBN, a not-for-profit consortium leveraging blockchain technology to enable paperless trade. GSBN’s infrastructure provides a scalable and robust platform for carriers like ONE to achieve their digitalization goals.

“The eBL has become a critical enabler of resilience and value creation in an era of increasing uncertainty,” says Bertrand Chen, CEO of GSBN. “ONE has been a pioneer in adopting digital innovations, and we’re proud to support their journey toward a fully digital future.”

ONE’s collaboration with GSBN marks its second major product adoption on the platform, following the successful implementation of cargo release. This milestone also positions ONE as the second DCSA member to partner with GSBN in its commitment to 100% eBL adoption, following Hapag-Lloyd’s announcement earlier this year.

A Future Without Paper

The move toward eBLs is more than just a technological upgrade—it’s a fundamental shift in how global trade operates. By eliminating paper-based processes, the industry can reduce costs, minimize errors, and improve transparency.

ONE’s adoption of the DCSA standard, including the latest iteration released in December 2024, is a testament to its commitment to innovation. As one of four major carriers issuing eBLs through GSBN—alongside COSCO, OOCL, and Hapag-Lloyd—ONE is paving the way for a more connected and efficient global supply chain.

With the goal of achieving 100% eBL adoption by 2030, ONE and its partners are not just adapting to the future—they’re shaping it.