A SCAC code is essential for any carrier or transport company wanting to move cargo in and out of the US. In this blog, we’ll explain the importance of this code and how to get one in a few simple steps.
SCAC codes streamline logistics by centralizing shipping documentsWhat are shipping documents? In shipping, shipping documents are documents that provide information about the goods being shipped. They may include information such as the origin and destination of th... More and automating container tracking. They also help to ensure compliance and reduce the risk of shipping delays.
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What is Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC)?
The Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC Code) is a two to four-letter code used to identify vessel operating common carriers (VOCC) in computer systems and shipping documentsWhat are shipping documents? In shipping, shipping documents are documents that provide information about the goods being shipped. They may include information such as the origin and destination of th... More. It’s essential for freight bills, bills of lading, packing lists, and purchase orders.
The SCAC code was developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), and is vital for customs compliance, especially when working with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
How does SCAC code work?
Once assigned, the SCAC code is used across shipping documentsWhat are shipping documents? In shipping, shipping documents are documents that provide information about the goods being shipped. They may include information such as the origin and destination of th... More. It supports Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), allowing businesses to exchange data electronically and improving communication with customs and partners.
Here’s a quick example of how the code is used:
Let’s say ‘XYZ Logistics’ has the SCAC code ‘ABCD.’ When XYZ Logistics ships goods to the US, this SCAC code will appear on their bill of lading and other shipping documentsWhat are shipping documents? In shipping, shipping documents are documents that provide information about the goods being shipped. They may include information such as the origin and destination of th... More.
Customs officials will use the SCAC code to quickly identify XYZ Logistics as the carrier, which speeds up customs clearance. At the same time, the SCAC code allows systems to automatically update tracking information, keeping customers and partners informed every step of the way.
Why is SCAC code required?
SCAC codes are essential in shipping for several reasons:
Customs and regulatory requirements: CBP requires SCAC codes when processing shipments crossing borders, helping customs authorities identify the carrier handling the shipment.
SCAC codes are also used to report transportation details to government agencies like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for safety and regulatory compliance.
Electronic communication and automation: EDI is a common method of sharing information between companies in the shipping industry. SCAC codes help automate the exchange of this shipping data, reducing manual entry errors and speeding up the process.
Cargo tracking and tracing: Many freight management and tracking systems rely on SCAC codes to monitor shipments accurately. With this standardized system, shippers and consignees can easily find out which carrier is moving their cargo, and get regular progress updates.
Who needs a SCAC code?
The SCAC code is primarily used by US government agencies, including the CBP. The code helps customs monitor carriers entering and exiting the country and access important information about them.
All carriers crossing the US border need the SCAC code to identify themselves correctly. SCAC code is also required by transportation companies doing business with US government agencies.
This code is used in the automobile, petroleum, forestry, railroad, and ocean container industries, among others.
Benefits of SCAC codes
Here are the main benefits of the SCAC code:
Improved accuracy: SCAC codes eliminate identification errors, reducing mistakes in billing, shipment routing, and documentation.
Enhanced visibility and tracking: SCAC codes enable real-time tracking and tracing of shipments, improving supply chain visibility. Shippers and consignees can easily locate their cargo and monitor its progress across various transport modes.
Fast and secure electronic communication: SCAC codes boost the speed and security of data exchange through EDI. This automates communication between companies and reduces manual input errors in shipping records.
Cost reduction: SCAC codes can contribute to reducing operational costs in the logistics process, by minimizing errors in carrier identification and improving efficiency in billing, invoicing, and tracking.
How to apply for Standard Carrier Alpha Code?
You can apply for SCAC digitally in four easy steps:
- Determine your eligibility: SCAC codes are issued to carriers and logistics companies.
- Gather information: Prepare business details like your company name, contact details, and carrier type.
- Apply online and pay: Visit the NMFTA website to submit your application and pay the fee (approximately $86).
- Receive your code: You’ll receive your SCAC code within 48 hours.
Once you log into the system, you’ll have access to the entire database of SCAC codes, which is updated in near-real time. You can also search by SCAC code, plus view active and inactive codes in seconds.
Each SCAC code is assigned by the NMFTA. Carriers can apply, renew, and manage their codes online in real-time.
Note: The NMFTA doesn’t provide codes for freight containers also used outside of North America, intermodal chassisWhat is a chassis? Chassis, in freight & logistics, refers to a skeleton framework with wheels on it used to move containers. It is also called intermodal chassis or container chassis. Similar to ... More and trailers, or non-railroad owned rail cars.
If your containers also operate outside the region, you should contact the Bureau International des Containers (BIC) in France.
When to renew the SCAC code?
SCAC codes must be renewed every year. The NMFTA will typically send renewal reminders. The renewal fee is similar to the initial application fee.
What happens if SCAC is not renewed?
Failing to renew your SCAC code can have negative consequences for your business. You may lose your carrier identification, experience customs clearance delays, and face difficulties with EDI systems. This can affect your relationships with clients and logistics partners.
SCAC code list: Check the code for your carrier
SCAC codes for carriers are easily available online. Let’s take a look at the SCAC codes for some of the biggest international carriers below:
| Carrier Name / Abbreviation | Carrier Name | SCAC Code |
| CMA CGM | Compagnie Maritime d’Affrètement Compagnie Generale Maritime | CMDU |
| COSCO | COSCO Container Lines | COSU |
| Emirates | Emirates Shipping Line | ESPU |
| Evergreen | Evergreen Line | EGLV |
| Hamburg Süd | Hamburg Süd | SUDU |
| Hapag Lloyd | Hapag Lloyd Container Line | HLCU |
| K+N | Kuehne + Nagel International AG | KHNN |
| Maersk | Maersk Line | MAEU |
| Matson | Matson Inc | MATS |
| MSC | Mediterranean Shipping Company | MSCU |
| OOCL | Orient Overseas Container Line | OOLU |
| PIL | Pacific International Lines | PCIU |
| ZIM | ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd | ZIMU |
Now that you understand the benefits of SCAC codes and how to get one for your business, it’s time to explore how to simplify your container operations with Container xChange.
Simplify your logistics with Container xChange
Our all-in-one platform is designed to simplify container management, optimize logistics, and centralize all your shipping documentsWhat are shipping documents? In shipping, shipping documents are documents that provide information about the goods being shipped. They may include information such as the origin and destination of th... More under one platform.
Here’s how we can help you:
- Boost efficiency: Automate tasks and reduce manual processes to save time and improve coordination across your supply chain.
- Enhance tracking: Get real-time visibility into your shipments for better tracking and faster decision-making.
- Buy, sell, and lease containers: Trade and lease containers from 1,700+ vetted suppliers, without a middleman.
- 24/5 support: Reach out to our dedicated support team whenever you need.
- Secure transactions: Make safe and reliable payments directly on the platform.
Interested in making your logistics smoother and more productive? Sign up for a free demo today, and discover how xChange can transform your shipping operations with just a click.
