Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC Code): Code list + why it's important ['24] (2024)

SCAC 2.0: How to get SCAC Code digitally in no time

Each SCAC code is assigned by the NMFTA. Whilst NMFTA have operated a manual system for decades, this has recently become completely digitized. The new digital system allows carriers to apply, reapply and manage their codes online in real-time.

There are a few exceptions. 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.

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, and view active and inactive codes in a matter of seconds.

For freight containers also operating outside North America

If your containers also operate outside the region, you should contact the Bureau International des Containers (BIC) in France.

How SCAC Codes automate your container operations

We mentioned earlier that the SCAC code computerized the transportation industry. One of the ways in which it brought about this change was by registering 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 electronically, as opposed to using paper. So how does this work?

It’s facilitated by a computerized communication system called Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). EDI is a computer-to-computer exchange of business documents between partners and stakeholders. It allows for the paperless transfer of important business information.

You can share all kinds of documents via EDI. Here are a couple of examples:

• Purchase orders
• Invoices
• Advance ship notices
• Bills of lading
• Customs documents
• Inventory documents
• Shipping status documents
• Payment documents

How does EDI simplify container operations?

When you use an EDI system, you’re able to reduce costs and avoid errors by replacing post and email with digitized versions of documents which are easy to access at any time. This helps to improve efficiency, foster trust and strengthen the relationships between business partners.

Whether you’re a freight forwarder or carrier you’ll know that updating customers on their shipments is extremely time-consuming. What’s the container release status? Any changes to the ? And so the questions continue raining down on you.

Now, let’s imagine that you no longer have the stress of hundreds of phone calls and emails ticking in asking for updates. Instead, you can communicate to all stakeholders quickly and easily with just the click of a button. Convenience at it’s best!

What if we told you it’s possible to make this your reality, by using our Container Control platform? With Container Control, get a clear overview of all of the containers you’re moving, plus monitor their journeys in near-real time.

Want to learn more? Click on the banner below to schedule your free demo now. You’ll get a sneak peek of Container Control and all of it’s useful features. Plus, learn how to keep track of your containers and streamline your container operations effortlessly today.

How to track your shipments without a SCAC Code

Don’t know the SCAC code but still want to track your shipments and manage updates? No problem. With Container Control, you don’t need a SCAC code to streamline your operations.

On our easy-to-use platform it’s possible to see which containers have been picked up, where they were taken, and when – simply log in and check anytime, from anywhere! This is because data is obtained straight from depots in near real-time. With full access to the status of your containers, you can reduce depot costs and demurrage and detention charges once and for all.

You can also find information like ETAsWhat is estimated time of arrival? Estimated time of arrival, commonly known as ETA, is a frequently used term globally to denote the time of coming. In the shipping & logistics industry, it is ... More, point of discharge, free days, and per diems here. With complete transparency, you can monitor updates for every single container at any level of release. Use ETAsWhat is estimated time of arrival? Estimated time of arrival, commonly known as ETA, is a frequently used term globally to denote the time of coming. In the shipping & logistics industry, it is ... More to keep customers in the loop, preempt potential issues and avoid disputes.

Container Control has other important features besides monitoring containers. With the booking manager keep track of all your bookings in one place. Plus, assign containers based on release references – convenience at its best!

Learn how to simplify your container operations with Container xChange

Giving and receiving updates on shipments manually is almost a full-time job. A full-time job that you have to take care of alongside all your other admin.

Luckily, Container Control is here to lighten your load. Interested to become a member on Container xChange and start tracking containers in near-real time? You’ll never have to worry about the whereabouts of your equipment again! So you can always be one step ahead.

Automating your container logistics will save you time and money. Plus just think of all those satisfied customers receiving regular, accurate updates on their shipments. So what are you waiting for? Get started monitoring your containers and streamlining your shipping operations right away by clicking below now.