The SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code) is a unique 18-digit identifier, defined by the GS1 standard, assigned to a specific logistics unit — a pallet, a shipping carton, a grouped package — to track it individually throughout transport, independently of its contents.
What the SSCC is for and how it is built
Unlike the EAN/GTIN, which identifies a generic product reference shared by every unit of the same item, the SSCC identifies a single physical instance of the logistics unit itself. Two pallets containing exactly the same products will therefore carry two different SSCCs, even though they might contain items with the same GTIN. The code is made up of an extension digit, the GS1 company prefix (uniquely assigned to the shipper), a serial reference chosen by the company itself, and a check digit calculated automatically to detect entry or reading errors.
The SSCC is generally printed as a GS1-128 barcode on a logistics label affixed to the pallet or carton, alongside other information (recipient, quantity, weight). Its main purpose is to enable automated tracking: at every scan (leaving the warehouse, in transit, on receipt), the SSCC is recorded and matched against the shipping notice (DESADV) sent in advance by EDI, letting the recipient verify within seconds that what they're receiving matches what was announced, without opening or recounting the contents. It is a pillar of track & trace in logistics, particularly useful in flows involving several intermediaries (freight forwarder, cross-docking platform, final retailer).
FAQ
What is the difference between SSCC and EAN/GTIN?
The GTIN identifies a product reference, common to every unit sold. The SSCC identifies a unique physical logistics unit — a specific pallet or carton — regardless of the products it contains, allowing it to be tracked individually throughout transport.
What is the SSCC actually used for?
It allows a pallet or carton to be scanned at every stage of transport and automatically matched against the shipping notice sent by EDI, without physically recounting the contents. It speeds up receiving and reduces mismatches between what is announced and what actually arrives.
Is the SSCC mandatory?
There is no general legal requirement, but many retailers and principals require it contractually as soon as an EDI/DESADV exchange is in place, because it underpins automated receiving checks and reliable matching of shipments announced in advance.
Related terms
EAN / GTIN · Barcode / GS1 · DESADV · EDI · EUR / EPAL pallet · Track & trace · WMS.
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