What is SSCC?
SSCC stands for Serial Shipping Container Code — a unique serial number for logistics units, such as pallets, cartons, or containers. It is part of the global GS1 standard and is usually encoded in a GS1-128 barcode or RFID label.
SSCC = the unique ID for tracking and tracing packaging in the supply chain.
🎯 What does an SSCC do?
An SSCC:
- Gives every logistics item a unique identification number
- Is used for tracking & tracing within and beyond the company
- Supports electronic messages (such as EDI) via GS1 standards
- Is required by many retail and pharma customers (e.g. for delivery to GMP sites or large distributors)
🧱 Structure of an SSCC
An SSCC consists of 18 digits, structured as follows:
(00) 3 8712345 000000001 6 ↑ ↑ ↑ ↑ AI Ext GS1 Company Serial Check
| Element | Meaning |
|---|---|
| (00) | Application Identifier (AI) for SSCC |
| Extension (1 digit) | Free for internal logic |
| GS1 company prefix | Unique to your organisation |
| Serial number (9 digits) | Generated uniquely per unit |
| Check digit | Automatically calculated from the previous digits |
📦 What is SSCC used for?
| Use case | Description |
|---|---|
| Pallet shipment | Each pallet receives a unique SSCC label |
| Inbound / outbound scanning | Scanning and recording inbound and outbound shipments |
| EDI messages (such as DESADV) | SSCC is sent as the ID at packaging level |
| Tracking & tracing | Tracking the location, status, and contents of a logistics unit |
| Warehouse management (WMS) | Linking physical goods with digital stock |
🔗 SSCC and other standards
| Standard | Relation to SSCC |
|---|---|
| GS1-128 | Barcode in which the SSCC is encoded |
| EDI (DESADV, RECADV) | Messages in which the SSCC is used as a shipment ID |
| WMS / ERP | Systems in which the SSCC is created, scanned, or stored |
| Tracking and Tracing | The SSCC forms the basis for supply chain transparency |
✅ Advantages of SSCC
- Globally unique ID for every shipping item
- Fast, error-free identification by scanning
- Seamless integration with suppliers, customers, and logistics service providers
- Traceability and recall-ready in case of incidents or quality issues
- Automation possible for receipt, storage, and shipment
📌 In summary
An SSCC is a unique serial number that identifies logistics units and makes them traceable across the entire chain. It is a crucial part of modern supply chains, especially when it comes to automation, safety, and Compliance.