Agile project approach

By following the Agile project approach, a core team existing of NxtPort and members from the community worked on the functional analysis of the different modules. This method of working together allows an active build-up of the application with the specific needs of the community. Once a new module is ready, user feedback helps to improve the solution with every new release.

With bi-weekly "sprints" and feedback loops, we strive to bring small parts of the solution bit by bit, focussing on added value for active stakeholders, stable (yet quick) deliverables and proactive (re)design.

The following modules were identified when the project initiated:

Terminal Delivery

The Terminal Delivery module can be used by forwarders to inform other stakeholders about incoming orders and (multimodal) transport visits. This allows for improved yard and resource planning. Terminal operators on their end confirm the shipments once they arrive at the gate and communicate differences on announced goods, weights and damages. 

Terminal Release

A terminal release order is used by forwarders or transport companies to initiate a loading order at the terminal. They identify which goods need to be transported and define by which means of transport the goods will be picked up, and when. Once the transport arrives, the terminal confirms the release of the goods from their yard. 

This module includes relevant "Green Lights" that need to be available in order to release goods from the terminal.

Vessel Discharge

A Vessel Discharge Order is used by Shipping Agents to inform the other stakeholders in the supply chain about the different shipments on board of an incoming deep sea vessel. By digitising the manifest, companies are able to plan better ahead and complete all necessary information before the goods arrive within the customs zone. Once the goods have been discharged, the terminal confirms the actual state of the goods towards the other stakeholders.  

This module is primarily used for import related activities and is strongly connected to the Customs declaration processes. 

Vessel Loading

Similar to the Terminal Release, the Vessel Loading Order allows forwarders to initiate the release of goods from the Terminal. However, when goods are being sent with a deep sea vessel, the Shipping Agent takes the lead in the communication with the Terminal and the Shipping Line. They ensure that goods are loaded, including all necessary legal documentation. 

Remark
This module includes an electronic equivalent of the "Permis d'embarquement". 

Other modules

Next to the 4 main modules of the Bulkchain application, NxtPort is analysing different core modules that will allow functionalities to be applied for cross-industry appliance.

Stuffing & stripping of containers

Breakbulk goods that are stuffed into containers, leave the terminal with references based on their new packaging. For breakbulk forwarders (or manufacturers), information about their shipments needs to be transparant and independent of the state of the goods. The same goes for goods that arrive at the terminal packed into containers, yet need to leave as breakbulk cargo. 

Customs

It's clear that customs plays an important role in the Bulkchain project. Working together closely with the authorities can shift the focus on administration towards added value and pro-active measures. 

App store

We encourage companies to create applications on top of the Bulkchain framework. Should you want to inquire more details on the possibilities (technically & commercially), don't hesitate to contact our team. 

Data hub

Bulkchain is a data hub. This means that all participants collaborate with each other towards a common goal. Companies that join the initiative agree to share and consume data based on the principles that are set out by the community. As such every participant is both data user and data provider. Compared to other NxtPort use cases, Bulkchain combines a set of data sharing API's into a "chain" solution. 

Community

The following list of companies represents the collaboration of the community during the several co-envisions that were organised to build the foundation of the Bulkchain use case.

Join the initiative

The current version of the Bulkchain API allows Forwarders/shippers, Terminals and Shipping agents to collaborate. To join follow the below steps:

• Register to the NxtPort platform (if you haven't already done so)
• Subscribe to the Live environment by clicking on the Subscribe button
• Select your role (currently, only 1 role is allowed)
• NxtPort will contact you with the information on how to proceed

 

Other stakeholder roles will be added in the future. However, be sure to join our community events in order to shape how the future will look like and use the below form to register your company. 

Developers

The Bulkchain API is created from an API-first perspective.

Access-controlled API

This API is an access-controlled API. This means that your application needs to accommodate an OAuth2 authentication flow between the application user and the NxtPort platform.

The application user logs in to the NxtPort identity component, and your application requests access to the API on behalf of the application user. The NxtPort platform then returns an access token to your application, which can be used to call the API.

To be able to request an access token, your application needs to be registered in the NxtPort platform. Registering an application is currently a manual process, so please contact NxtPort for this. Go to our support desk where you will find all required information on how to get started.

App store

NxtPort supports and encourages software developers to build additional features and software around its API's. Should you be interested in finding out what is possible and discuss how the technology could be incorporated into your solutions, please contact us through the support desk.