What Is an SSCC? Simple Explanation, Structure, and Examples

The SSCC — Serial Shipping Container Code — is a standardized identifier used worldwide to uniquely identify a logistic unit: a pallet, container, tote, or any grouping of goods that moves together. Designed by GS1 standards, the SSCC enables accurate tracking, electronic communication, and automated scanning across trading partners. For beginners, the SSCC is the digital name of a physical shipment unit.

Why SSCCs Matter

SSCCs solve the problem of identifying a specific physical unit among many similar ones. For example, when several pallets of the same product ship from a factory, each pallet needs its own identity. The SSCC provides that identity so systems and people can match physical units with documents like ASNs (Advance Shipping Notices), invoices, and warehouse records.

Basic Structure of an SSCC

An SSCC is typically 18 digits long. The digits are arranged into these components

• Extension digit (1 digit) — A flexible digit that allows companies to expand numbering capacity; it can be any number 0–9.
• GS1 Company Prefix (variable length) — Assigned by your local GS1 organization, this prefix identifies the company that issued the SSCC.
• Serial reference (variable length) — A unique number assigned by the company to identify the specific logistic unit.
• Check digit (1 digit) — Calculated using a modulo algorithm to ensure the full SSCC is valid and scannable.

Example

Imagine a company with GS1 prefix 1234567. They might create an SSCC like: 0 1234567 000001234 5 (spaces added for clarity). In practice, it appears as an 18-digit string and is typically encoded in a GS1-128 barcode with the application identifier (AI) 00 indicating SSCC.

How It’s Represented

On labels, the SSCC is encoded using the GS1-128 barcode symbology and preceded by the AI (00). Human-readable text often displays the numeric SSCC below the barcode. Electronic messages (EDI, XML) include the SSCC in shipment or ASN segments so partners can electronically match the logistic unit.

Where the SSCC Is Used

• In ASNs and EDI 856 messages to tell the receiver exactly which pallet or carton is being shipped.
• By warehouse systems to track putaway, picking, and shipping activities tied to a specific logistic unit.
• By carriers to scan and confirm pickups, transfers, and deliveries.
• In audits and recalls to identify the exact unit affected by quality issues.

How to Create an SSCC

• Obtain a GS1 company prefix from your national GS1 organization.
• Decide on an extension digit strategy (e.g., use it to differentiate business units).
• Assign a unique serial reference for each logistic unit (ensure it won’t be reused).
• Calculate and append the check digit.
• Encode SSCC in a GS1-128 barcode and place it on the logistic unit label.

Best Practices

• Never reuse SSCCs: Once an SSCC has been used for a logistic unit, don’t reuse it for a new unit.
• Include SSCCs in ASNs: Transmit SSCC information electronically before shipment to speed up receiving.
• Ensure barcode quality: Use correct printing and verify scans to avoid receiving delays.
• Document numbering rules: Maintain internal records for how extension digits and serial references are assigned.

Common Beginner Questions

• Is SSCC the same as a carton ID? Not exactly — an SSCC identifies a logistic unit, which could be a carton, pallet, or container. A carton ID may be used for individual consumer units, while SSCC is for grouped units.
• Who issues SSCCs? Companies issue SSCCs themselves using their GS1 company prefix; GS1 provides the prefix but not individual SSCCs.
• Is SSCC required? Some retailers and carriers require SSCCs for efficient receiving and tracking, but it depends on trading partner agreements.

Real-World Scenario

A beverage manufacturer prepares 50 pallets for a supermarket chain. Each pallet receives a unique SSCC. The manufacturer sends an ASN listing all SSCCs and their contents. The carrier scans SSCCs at pickup, and the supermarket scans them at receiving to automatically update inventory and speed up invoice matching. This streamlines operations and reduces errors compared to manual identification.

For a beginner, the SSCC is best thought of as the unique name for a pallet or container that helps systems and people reliably find, scan, and exchange information about that specific unit throughout its lifecycle.