There are many acronyms in the freight industry. One of the “acronyms” is SCAC codes, which can be found on shipping documents and tracking systems. Where can you find SCAC codes and why do you might need them?
What are SCAC Codes?
The SCAC code stands for Standard Carrier Alpha Code. It is a unique two-to-four-letter code used to identify transportation companies. They are assigned by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) and have been used since the 1960s.
Do I need a SCAC?
The SCACs are used by:
- the American National Standards Institute (ANSI),
- the Accredited Standards Committee (ASC),
- the United Nations Electronic Data Interchange (EDI),
- and for all rail, motor and water carrier transactions requiring carrier ID.
SCAC is required for the Automated Commerical Environment (ACE), Automated Manifest (AMS), and pre-arrival-processing systems.
Therefore, if you transport goods in North America, you should have a SCAC. Aside from freight carriers, freight brokers also should hold a SCAC.
Where is SCAC used?
You can find SCAC on shipping documents such as:
- bills of lading,
- freight bills,
- shipping manifests.
How to find SCAC – a SCAC Code Directory
Is there a SCAC codes database? Fortunately, there are many online resources where you can look up SCAC codes. The most reliable one is run by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. Go to this link to find SCAC codes.
SCAC Code List
Here are some examples of SCAC Codes:
- BNSF – BNSF Railway (Railroad)
- COSU – COSCO Shipping (Ocean shipping)
- CSXT – CSX Transportation (Railroad)
- FDEG – FedEx (Ground)
- MAEU – Maersk Line (Ocean shipping)
- MSCU – Mediterranean Shipping Company (Ocean shipping)
- UPSN – UPS (Parcel Service)
Does the SCAC code expire?
SCAC code expires, as it is valid for only a year. If you have an SCAC code but don’t know whether to renew it, check it on the official website. Just enter your code to check its validity. If you have a SCAC and don’t want to streamline the process, opt for automatic renewal payments to ensure continuous validity. Otherwise, your code will be deactivated.
SCAC Codes for freight, shipping and logistics
Whether you’re involved in shipping, logistics, or freight in Canada or the US, SCAC codes are a fundamental component of your work. You don’t necessarily need to memorize them all –get familiar with the most common and use a SCAS code lookup to find the rest.
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