Ever wondered how a massive retailer tracks thousands of inbound containers from dozens of different ocean carriers without complete chaos? Or how U.S. Customs instantly identifies which carrier is responsible for a specific shipment entering the country?
The secret is a simple, four-letter identifier: the Standard Carrier Alpha Code, or SCAC.
The Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) is a unique two-to-four-letter code used to identify transportation companies.
The Bill of Lading is the single most important document in shipping. The SCAC code is prominently displayed to identify the carrier.
SCAC codes enable:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires SCAC for the Automated Manifest System (AMS). Missing or incorrect SCAC codes cause holds, delays, and demurrage fees.
| Identifier | Purpose | Issued By | Primary Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| SCAC Code | Commerce & Operations | NMFTA | Carrier identification in billing, tracking, and EDI |
| DOT Number | Safety & Compliance | FMCSA | Tracking a company's safety record |
| MC Number | Legal Authority | FMCSA | License to transport regulated goods interstate |
| Steamship Line | SCAC Code |
|---|---|
| A.P. Moller-Maersk | MAEU |
| Mediterranean Shipping Company | MSCU |
| CMA CGM | CMDU |
| COSCO Shipping Lines | COSU |
| Hapag-Lloyd | HLCU |
| Ocean Network Express (ONE) | ONEY |
| Evergreen Marine Corporation | EGLV |
| HMM Co. Ltd. | HDMU |
| Yang Ming Marine Transport | YMLU |
| Zim Integrated Shipping | ZIMU |
| Wan Hai Lines | WHLC |
| Matson | MATS |
Who needs a SCAC code?
Any company that operates as a transportation carrier and needs to be identified in systems for customs, EDI, or major shipper requirements.
Does every carrier have one?
While not legally mandatory, it is a practical necessity for most operations.
What happens if a SCAC code is not renewed?
It becomes inactive and will be rejected by customs systems like AMS.
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