What Are SCAC Codes?
Standard Carrier Alpha Codes (SCAC) are unique two-to-four letter codes used to identify transportation companies. These codes are an essential part of the shipping and logistics industry, serving as standardized identifiers for carriers across various modes of transportation including motor, rail, ocean, and air.
Originally developed in the 1960s to facilitate computerized record keeping and electronic data exchange in the transportation industry, SCAC codes have become the universal standard for identifying freight carriers in North America and internationally.
These codes play a critical role in streamlining logistics operations, improving data accuracy, and enabling efficient communication between different parties in the supply chain.
History and Management of SCAC Codes
SCAC codes were first developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) in collaboration with the Association of American Railroads (AAR) to standardize carrier identification in an increasingly computerized shipping industry.
Today, SCAC codes are exclusively assigned and maintained by the NMFTA. This centralized management ensures that each code is unique and prevents duplication that could lead to confusion or errors in shipping documentation and transactions.
Key milestones in SCAC code development include:
- 1960s: Initial development for railroad industry record keeping
- 1970s: Expanded to motor carriers
- 1980s: Became the standard identification system for EDI transactions
- 1990s: Integration with international shipping standards
- 2000s to present: Expanded use in digital logistics platforms and supply chain management software
SCAC codes are renewed annually, and the NMFTA maintains the definitive database of all active codes.
SCAC Code Format
SCAC codes follow a specific format:
- Length: Two to four alphabetic characters
- Characters: Capital letters only (A-Z)
- No special characters or numbers
- Unique: Each code is assigned to only one company
Most modern SCAC codes are four letters long. Two and three letter codes were primarily assigned in the earlier days of the system and are generally held by older, established carriers.
Examples of well-known SCAC codes include:
- FXFE - FedEx Freight
- UPSN - UPS Supply Chain Solutions
- JBHT - J.B. Hunt Transport
- BNSF - BNSF Railway Company
How to Obtain a SCAC Code
Obtaining a SCAC code involves a straightforward application process through the NMFTA:
- Submit an application to the NMFTA
- Pay the application fee (varies by membership status)
- Provide required company information and documentation
- Receive your assigned SCAC code
- Renew annually to maintain active status
Companies eligible for SCAC codes include:
- Motor carriers
- Freight forwarders
- Railroads
- Ocean carriers
- Air carriers
- Transportation intermediaries
SCAC codes must be renewed annually to remain active. Lapsed codes may be reassigned after a certain period of time.
Applications and Uses of SCAC Codes
Documentation and Paperwork
- Bills of Lading (BOL) - Identifies the carrier responsible for the shipment
- Freight Bills and Invoices - Standardizes carrier identification in billing
- Customs Documentation - Provides clear carrier identification for cross-border shipments
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
- EDI 204 - Motor Carrier Load Tender
- EDI 210 - Motor Carrier Freight Details and Invoice
- EDI 214 - Transportation Carrier Shipment Status Message
- EDI 856 - Advance Shipping Notice
Tracking and Tracing
- Shipment Visibility - Enables consistent tracking across systems
- Intermodal Transfers - Maintains identity through different transport modes
- Supply Chain Management - Critical for end-to-end visibility
Regulatory Compliance
- Customs and Border Protection - Required for international shipments
- ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) - U.S. Customs system
- Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) - Required for ocean transport providers
Benefits of Using SCAC Codes
Standardization
Provides a universally recognized identification system that works across different transportation modes and international boundaries.
Efficiency
Streamlines data entry, reduces manual errors, and facilitates automatic processing of shipping documents and electronic transactions.
Data Accuracy
Prevents confusion between similarly named carriers and ensures consistent identification across all systems and documentation.
Integration
Facilitates seamless communication between different software systems, EDI networks, and trading partners throughout the supply chain.
Regulatory Compliance
Meets requirements for various governmental agencies and international trade regulations, helping companies maintain compliance in global shipping operations.
SCAC vs. Other Identification Codes
| Code Type | Purpose | Format | Issuing Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| SCAC | Identifies transportation carriers | 2-4 alpha characters | NMFTA |
| DUNS Number | Identifies business entities | 9 digits | Dun & Bradstreet |
| MC Number | Identifies interstate motor carriers | MC followed by 5-6 digits | FMCSA |
| DOT Number | Identifies companies operating commercial vehicles | 6-7 digits | U.S. DOT |
| IATA Code | Identifies airlines | 2 alpha characters | IATA |
Note: While these codes serve different purposes, they often work together in the logistics ecosystem to provide complete identification and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I look up a company's SCAC code?
You can use our free SCAC lookup tool to quickly find any carrier's SCAC code. Alternatively, you can check the NMFTA's official directory or contact the carrier directly.
Do all transportation companies have SCAC codes?
Not all transportation companies have SCAC codes. Companies that engage in interstate or international commerce, use EDI transactions, or need to be identified on shipping documents typically obtain SCAC codes. Small local carriers operating within limited regions may not require a SCAC code.
Can a company choose its own SCAC code?
Companies can request specific SCAC codes during the application process, but assignment is ultimately determined by the NMFTA. Requested codes must be available and not already assigned to another carrier. Many companies prefer codes that reflect their business name.
Do SCAC codes expire?
Yes, SCAC codes must be renewed annually with the NMFTA. If a company fails to renew its SCAC code, it will expire and may eventually be reassigned to another carrier.
Are SCAC codes used internationally?
Yes, SCAC codes are recognized internationally for global shipping and logistics operations. They're widely used in international trade documentation, customs procedures, and global supply chain management systems.