SCAC 2.0 | More Efficient, Better Visibility

The Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) is a unique two to four-digit code used to identify transportation companies. It was designed in the 1960s and has an exciting update launching on April 10th, 2023. The new portal will allow SCAC holders better visibility of their codes and the ability to set auto-renewals and make payments online. Today's blog will highlight the benefits of the SCAC 2.0 launch and delve into what carriers can expect. 

Who Needs a SCAC Code?

All commercial carriers entering the US must register for a SCAC. These unique codes are used mainly by US government agencies, meaning that all carriers bringing goods across the border need one of these codes so that the CBP can identify who they are and what they are transporting. 

According to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), these codes can be obtained from the National Motor Freight Traffic Association Inc. (NMFTA), allowing for automated shipment updates and increased efficiency. 

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What Is SCAC Used For? 

CBP and US Partner Government Agencies (PGA) use these codes to identify and monitor carriers entering the US and locate the shipment's contents if an inspection is required. SCAC codes must be renewed annually to remain valid, and the anticipated changes to SCAC will make the renewal process easier.

The SCAC codes can be found on shipping documents, including; invoices and the Bill of Lading. 

The Types of SCAC

There are unique codes used for the type of transportation. These codes facilitate determining the mode of transport used to move goods. The SCAC codes consist of the following: 

• Shipping and freight containers have codes ending in "U"
• Privately owned railway carriages have codes ending in "X"
• Intermodal shipping services with truck trailers and chassis have codes ending in "Z"

New SCAC Features 

The new SCAC will simplify processes for resellers and carriers. SCACs were developed in the 1960s by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) as a way to computerize and streamline data. Carriers, businesses, and freight forwarders can expect to benefit in the following ways: 

• Carriers and resellers can set an auto-renew for their codes. Additionally, they will be provided with a notification when their code expires. 
• Businesses can easily apply and purchase multiple codes if need be. 
• Improved usability features provide easier management access on their phones. 
• Automated payments. 
• The new SCAC supports French, English, and Spanish and can be translated easily. 

The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) provided the following list of the benefits of SCAC 2.0: 

• Need multiple codes? Not a problem! Easily apply and purchase without any complicated workarounds.
• Are you a planner? Just let us know! Automated future cancellation dates replace the outdated manual system processes of the past.
• On the road? A responsive mobile interface makes viewing and managing SCAC information on your phone or other mobile devices easy.
• Tired of printed forms, calls, and faxes? Manual processes and data collection are rendered obsolete. No more forms. No more calls. No more faxes.

NMFTA's Executive Director Debbie Ruane Sparks mentioned that SCAC 2.0 is all about easing trucking companies' points of frustration by allowing them to attain and manage their codes which will empower them like never before. 

We have carrier assistance services that provide barcodes printed by an authorized printer and centralized processing for Canada and US-bound shipments. Get in touch with one of our specialists to streamline your label printing process to ensure the wheels of your cargo move smoothly and efficiently across international borders.