Frequently Asked Questions

A Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) is a unique two-to-four letter code used to identify transportation companies. These codes are primarily used in the shipping industry for tracking shipments and in Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) transactions.

SCAC codes are issued and maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) and serve as a standard identifier for freight carriers across different transportation modes including motor, rail, ocean, and air.

SCAC codes play a critical role in logistics and supply chain operations for several reasons:

• They provide a standardized way to identify carriers across different systems and platforms
• They are essential for Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) transactions between business partners
• They help streamline documentation processes for shipping, customs, and regulatory compliance
• They improve accuracy in tracking, tracing, and billing for shipments
• They are required on many shipping documents, including bills of lading and customs forms

Without SCAC codes, the complex ecosystem of global shipping would face significant challenges in maintaining standardized identification across different systems.

SCAC codes are exclusively assigned and maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), a non-profit membership organization representing interstate, intrastate, and international motor carriers.

The NMFTA has been the official issuer of SCAC codes since the early days of the system and maintains the definitive database of all active codes. They handle new applications, renewals, and maintain the official directory of SCAC codes.

SCAC codes are two to four alphabetic characters in length. 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. Today, the NMFTA typically assigns four-letter codes to new applicants.

No, not all transportation companies have SCAC codes. While SCAC codes are widely used in the industry, they are primarily required for:

• Companies engaged in interstate or international commerce
• Companies participating in Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) transactions
• Companies that need to be identified on bills of lading and other shipping documentation

Small local carriers that operate within limited geographic regions and don't participate in EDI may not require a SCAC code. However, as businesses grow and expand their operations, obtaining a SCAC code often becomes necessary.

To obtain a SCAC code for your company, you need to follow these steps:

1. Visit the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) website
2. Complete the SCAC application form
3. Submit the required documentation, which typically includes proof of operating authority or other relevant business documentation
4. Pay the application fee (fees vary based on whether you're an NMFTA member)
5. Once approved, your SCAC code will be assigned and you'll receive official notification

Processing times vary, but applications are typically handled within 2-4 weeks. The NMFTA will assign your company a unique SCAC code based on availability and their assignment protocols.

While you can request specific SCAC codes when applying, the final assignment is determined by the NMFTA based on availability and their internal policies. There are several factors that affect whether your requested code will be assigned:

• The requested code must not already be assigned to another carrier
• The requested code must not be too similar to existing codes to avoid confusion
• The code must follow the SCAC format requirements (2-4 alphabetic characters)
• The NMFTA may have reserved certain codes for specific purposes

Many companies request codes that relate to their business name or brand for easy recognition. It's recommended to provide multiple options in your application in case your first choice is unavailable.

The cost of obtaining and maintaining a SCAC code varies based on several factors:

• Initial application fees typically range from $85 to $235, depending on whether you're an NMFTA member
• Annual renewal fees are also required to maintain an active SCAC code
• NMFTA members generally receive discounted rates for both application and renewal

These fees are subject to change, so it's best to check the current fee schedule on the NMFTA website.

While there is a cost associated with obtaining and maintaining a SCAC code, it's generally considered a necessary business expense for companies operating in the logistics and transportation industry, as the code is required for many aspects of shipping operations.

Yes, SCAC codes must be renewed annually to remain active. Here's what you need to know about SCAC code expiration:

• The NMFTA requires annual renewal of all SCAC codes
• Renewal notices are typically sent out 60-90 days before expiration
• If not renewed, the SCAC code will expire and may eventually be reassigned to another carrier
• Using an expired SCAC code can cause issues with shipping documentation and EDI transactions

It's important to keep track of your renewal date and ensure timely payment to maintain the continuity of your SCAC code. Losing your assigned code can cause significant disruption to your business operations and may require updating all your shipping documentation and EDI configurations.

When your company undergoes significant changes such as a name change, merger, or acquisition, you should notify the NMFTA to update your SCAC registration. Here's what typically happens in different scenarios:

• Name Change: If only your company name is changing but the legal entity remains the same, you can usually keep your existing SCAC code. You'll need to submit documentation of the name change to the NMFTA to update their records.
• Merger or Acquisition: In case of a merger or acquisition, the handling of SCAC codes depends on how the business entities are structured after the transaction:
  • If the acquired company continues to operate as a separate legal entity, it may retain its original SCAC code
  • If the companies fully merge into a single entity, one SCAC code is typically retained while the other may be surrendered
  • In some cases, both codes might be maintained if the operations remain distinctly separate

It's important to contact the NMFTA promptly when such changes occur to ensure proper handling of your SCAC registration and to prevent any disruption to your shipping operations.

SCAC codes appear in numerous shipping documents and electronic messages throughout the logistics process:

• Bills of Lading (BOL): The SCAC code identifies the carrier responsible for transporting the shipment
• Freight Bills and Invoices: Used to identify carriers for billing and payment purposes
• Customs Documentation: Required for identifying carriers in international shipping
• Shipping Labels: Often included as part of carrier identification information
• EDI Transactions: Used in various EDI message types including:
  • 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)
• Transportation Management Systems (TMS): Used to identify carriers in logistics software

The exact placement of the SCAC code on documents varies by document type and format, but it's typically included in the carrier information section or header of the document.

SCAC codes are integral to Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) in the logistics industry. Here's how they function within EDI systems:

• Carrier Identification: The SCAC code serves as a standardized identifier in EDI messages, ensuring that the correct carrier is identified across different computer systems
• EDI Routing: Many EDI systems use SCAC codes to route messages to the appropriate partners
• Common EDI Transaction Sets: SCAC codes appear in numerous EDI transaction sets, including:
  • 204 - Motor Carrier Load Tender
  • 210 - Motor Carrier Freight Details and Invoice
  • 214 - Transportation Carrier Shipment Status Message
  • 856 - Advance Shipping Notice
  • 997 - Functional Acknowledgment
• Data Validation: EDI systems often validate SCAC codes against databases to ensure accuracy

Without valid SCAC codes, EDI transactions in the transportation industry would face significant challenges in routing and processing messages correctly. This standardization is one of the key benefits of the SCAC system in modern logistics operations.

Yes, SCAC codes are used internationally, though their usage varies by region and trade lane:

• They are widely recognized in international shipping and logistics operations, particularly for shipments involving North American origins or destinations
• Many international ocean carriers, air carriers, and freight forwarders have SCAC codes
• They're commonly used in cross-border shipping between the US, Canada, and Mexico
• They appear on international shipping documentation, especially when US customs is involved
• Global logistics software and EDI systems typically support SCAC codes as carrier identifiers

While SCAC codes originated in North America, their use has expanded globally as international trade has become more interconnected. However, it's worth noting that some regions may have their own local carrier identification systems in addition to SCAC codes.

Several different identification systems exist in the transportation industry, each serving specific purposes:

• SCAC Code: A 2-4 letter code identifying transportation companies, used primarily for shipping documentation and EDI
• MC Number (Motor Carrier Number):
  • Issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
  • Required for interstate carriers transporting regulated commodities
  • Format: "MC" followed by a 6-digit number
• DOT Number:
  • Also issued by the FMCSA
  • Used for safety monitoring and enforcement
  • Required for interstate carriers and hazardous materials transporters
• DUNS Number:
  • A 9-digit identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet
  • Identifies businesses globally, not specific to transportation
  • Often used for credit evaluations and general business identification
• IATA Code:
  • 2-letter codes for airlines issued by the International Air Transport Association
  • Used specifically in the air transportation industry

While there may be some overlap in usage, each of these identification systems serves specific regulatory, operational, or industry needs. Many transportation companies maintain multiple identifiers to comply with various requirements and standards.

There are several ways to find a company's SCAC code:

1. Use our SCAC lookup tool: Our free SCAC code lookup allows you to search by carrier name or SCAC code
2. Check shipping documentation: SCAC codes often appear on bills of lading, freight bills, and other shipping documents
3. Contact the carrier directly: Most carriers can provide their SCAC code upon request
4. Consult the official NMFTA directory: The NMFTA publishes an official directory of SCAC codes (requires purchase)
5. Check transportation management systems: Many TMS platforms maintain SCAC code databases

Our SCAC lookup tool is designed to be the fastest and most user-friendly option, providing quick access to a comprehensive database of carriers and their associated SCAC codes.

Our SCAC code database is designed to be as accurate and up-to-date as possible:

• We regularly update our database to include new carriers and code assignments
• Our information is sourced from reliable industry resources and verified when possible
• We track SCAC code renewals and expirations to maintain accuracy
• We work to remove outdated information as codes are reassigned or companies cease operations

While we strive for 100% accuracy, the transportation industry is dynamic with frequent changes. If you notice any discrepancies or have updated information about a specific SCAC code, please contact us so we can update our records.

Yes, our SCAC lookup tool provides more than just the basic code information. When available, we include:

• Full company name associated with the SCAC code
• Company type (motor carrier, rail, ocean, air, etc.)
• Basic contact information
• SCAC status (active, expired, etc.)

Our goal is to provide value beyond simple code identification, giving you useful context about the carriers you're working with. For detailed carrier information, you can click through to the carrier's detail page from the search results.

No, SCAC codes are designed to be unique identifiers. The NMFTA ensures that each active SCAC code is assigned to only one company at a time. This uniqueness is essential for the code's purpose of clearly identifying specific carriers in shipping documents and EDI transactions.

However, there are a few scenarios that might create the appearance of duplicate codes:

• Code Reassignment: If a company fails to renew their SCAC code, it may eventually be reassigned to a different company. This means the same code might be associated with different companies at different points in time.
• Corporate Structure: Sometimes a parent company and its subsidiaries may appear to share a code in unofficial listings, though they would have distinct official SCAC codes.
• Historical Records: Databases that don't regularly update might show outdated assignments alongside current ones.

Our database is designed to show current, active SCAC assignments to avoid confusion. If you encounter what appears to be a duplicate assignment, it's likely one of the scenarios described above.

Integrating SCAC codes into your shipping system typically involves these steps:

1. Database Setup: Create or update your carrier database to include SCAC code fields
2. Data Population: Populate your database with accurate SCAC codes for your carrier partners
3. Document Templates: Ensure your shipping document templates include fields for SCAC codes
4. EDI Configuration: Configure your EDI system to include SCAC codes in relevant transaction sets
5. Validation Rules: Set up validation rules to ensure SCAC codes are entered in the correct format
6. Regular Updates: Implement a process for regularly updating your SCAC code database

Many modern Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems already have built-in support for SCAC codes. If you're using such a system, you may only need to ensure your carrier database is up-to-date.

For custom-built systems, you'll need to ensure that SCAC codes are properly incorporated into your data model and document generation processes.

SCAC codes should adhere to these formatting guidelines when used in shipping systems:

• Character Type: Always use uppercase alphabetic characters (A-Z)
• Length: 2-4 characters, depending on the specific code
• No Spaces: SCAC codes should never contain spaces
• No Special Characters: SCAC codes do not include numbers, punctuation, or special characters
• No Padding: Shorter codes (2-3 characters) should not be padded with spaces or zeros

In EDI transactions, SCAC codes are typically placed in specific segments and elements according to the transaction set specifications. For example, in an EDI 204 (Motor Carrier Load Tender), the SCAC code is often found in the TD5 segment.

For database storage, it's recommended to use a VARCHAR or CHAR field with a minimum length of 4 characters to accommodate all possible SCAC codes. Since SCAC codes are case-sensitive identifiers, storing them in uppercase is the standard practice.

There are several options for accessing comprehensive SCAC code lists:

• NMFTA Directory: The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) offers the official Directory of Standard Carrier Alpha Codes for purchase. This is the most authoritative and complete source, as the NMFTA is the official issuer of SCAC codes.
• Industry Data Providers: Several logistics data service providers offer SCAC code databases as part of their subscription services.
• TMS and ERP Systems: Many Transportation Management Systems and Enterprise Resource Planning systems come with built-in SCAC code databases.
• FindSCAC.com Services: While our free lookup tool is designed for individual code lookups, we do offer options for businesses needing bulk access to SCAC information. Please contact us for details on our business services.

For most users, our online lookup tool provides the quickest way to find specific SCAC codes as needed. For enterprises requiring frequent lookups or system integration, one of the options above would be more appropriate.

The NMFTA issues new SCAC codes on an ongoing basis as companies apply for them. While the exact numbers fluctuate, here are some key points about new SCAC code issuance:

• New codes are typically processed within 2-4 weeks of application submission
• The NMFTA issues codes throughout the year, not on a specific schedule
• The transportation industry sees regular turnover, with new companies entering the market and others ceasing operations
• Economic conditions and industry trends can affect the rate of new code issuance
• The NMFTA periodically publishes updates to their official directory

At FindSCAC.com, we work to keep our database current by regularly incorporating new SCAC code assignments.

It's worth noting that in addition to new codes being issued, existing codes may expire if not renewed, and these expired codes may eventually be reassigned to new applicants after a certain period.

While both SCAC codes and NMFC codes are managed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), they serve entirely different purposes in the logistics industry:

• SCAC (Standard Carrier Alpha Code):
  • Identifies transportation companies
  • 2-4 letter alphabetic code
  • Used on shipping documents and in EDI transactions
  • Helps track which carrier is handling a shipment
• NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification):
  • Classifies freight commodities based on transportability
  • Consists of an item number and sub-number
  • Used to determine freight rates for LTL shipments
  • Categorizes goods based on density, stowability, handling, and liability

While these codes are managed by the same organization and may both appear on shipping documentation, they serve completely different functions in the freight transportation process. SCAC codes identify who is moving the freight, while NMFC codes describe what is being moved.

SCAC codes are not universally required for all shipping types, but they are essential in many contexts:

• Required in:
  • EDI transactions between trading partners
  • Many international shipping operations, especially those involving US customs
  • Government shipments and military freight
  • Most commercial interstate shipping in North America
  • Many Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
• May not be required in:
  • Small parcel shipping (though carriers like UPS and FedEx do have SCAC codes)
  • Local deliveries within a limited geographic area
  • Internal company transfers not involving third-party carriers
  • Some purely regional or intrastate operations

The necessity of SCAC codes tends to increase with:

• The size and complexity of the shipping operation
• The level of electronic integration between business partners
• The geographic scope of operations (especially international)
• The regulatory requirements applicable to the shipment

Even when not strictly required, using SCAC codes can improve standardization and efficiency in shipping operations.

SCAC, IATA, and ICAO codes are all identification systems used in transportation, but they serve different industries and purposes:

• SCAC (Standard Carrier Alpha Code):
  • 2-4 letter codes identifying transportation companies across all modes (truck, rail, ocean, air)
  • Issued by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA)
  • Used primarily in shipping documentation and EDI transactions
  • Example: FDXF (FedEx Freight)
• IATA (International Air Transport Association) Codes:
  • 2-letter airline designator codes (e.g., AA for American Airlines)
  • 3-letter airport codes (e.g., LAX for Los Angeles International)
  • Issued by the International Air Transport Association
  • Used specifically in the air travel and air cargo industries
• ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) Codes:
  • 3-letter airline codes (e.g., AAL for American Airlines)
  • 4-letter airport codes (e.g., KLAX for Los Angeles International)
  • Issued by the International Civil Aviation Organization
  • Used primarily for air traffic control and official aviation purposes

While all three code systems serve as standardized identifiers, they operate in different contexts. An air carrier might have all three types of codes - a SCAC code for general shipping documentation, an IATA code for commercial airline identification, and an ICAO code for air traffic control and flight operations.