Organizing the flow of goods from warehouse to fulfillment center to customer takes a great deal of coordination with various entities across the world. An SSCC label is an important aspect of the logistics involved with the transport of goods. In fact, certain large trading companies require all business partners to use SSCC labels. SSCC labels allow shipping companies to identify and track a large number of goods with one scan for increased efficiency.
An SSCC label uses a standardized format and must follow specific guidelines. Wondering how to make your own SSCC label? Read our guide to learn everything you need to know to get started.
What Does SSCC Stand For?
SSCC stands for Serial Shipping Container Code. Serial shipping container codes are 18-digit numbers used on shipping units (pallets, containers, cases, and cartons). Each code is unique worldwide, remaining with the shipping unit from the beginning to the very end of the shipping journey. Because SSCC numbers are standardized, communication is seamless between various worldwide organizations.
What are SSCC Labels?
SSCC labels are used to clearly identify transport units and track those units for the duration of the shipping process. The entire contents of a pallet, carton, or container can be scanned with only one SSCC label, which considerably increases the efficiency of the shipping process. In fact, an SSCC is required as part of a GS1 transport label. Most of the time, the SSCC is shown in plain text and GS1-128 barcode. However, the SSCC can be encoded in an RFID label.
The use of SSCC labels simplifies the logistics process of transporting goods. Usually, the shipper will generate an SSCC label and apply it to the pallet or container. Next, the shipper sends out a digital dispatch message to the recipient, giving a clear overview of what will be delivered. Both the recipient and the shipper can use the SSCC to track the pallet during transport. Finally, once the recipient receives the shipment, they will scan the SSCC label. A digital dispatch message is sent to the shipper to notify them of its arrival.
SSCC Numbers
SSCC numbers are created with some sort of software program. Most Warehouse Software (WMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning Software (ERP) should have the capability to generate SSCC numbers for your SSCC labels. SSCC numbers are composed in the following way:
- The first position is called a reserve digit. This is a number between 0 and 9 that the SSCC creator chooses.
- The second position is the GS1 base number of the GLN (Global Location Number). This is a seven to nine-digit number that comes from the supplying company.
- The third position is the serial reference, chosen by the SSCC creator. This refers specifically to the pallet and its contents. Once used, a serial reference cannot be reused for a total of twelve months.
- Finally, the fourth position is called a check digit. This prevents errors and incorrect entries. The check digit is calculated using the Modulo 10 algorithm.
Advantages of SSCC Label Numbers
Using SSCC label numbers comes with many advantages. That’s why SSCC labels are used worldwide. Here are the top advantages of using SSCC labels:
- Smooth order processing
- Higher customer satisfaction
- Stay on schedule with deliveries
- Automation of stock management
- Seamless tracking of shipments
- Easy identification of shipping units at any time
- Handling of large volume of shipments seamlessly
- Efficient communication with business partners
SSCC Labels with Barcodes
Once you have an SSCC, generating an SSCC barcode is simple. All you need is the software to generate barcodes. Professional label software will convert the 18-digit number to a unique barcode that you can use to label pallets and containers. Then, as the unit is transported from location to location, a simple scan of the barcode label will update the progress of the unit. If you’re using RFID technology, you’ll need software that has the capacity to encode the SSCC into the RFID label.
How to Correctly Make SSCC Labels
Once you have the SSCC, you’ll need to create a proper label. SSCC labels are generally printed on A5 paper, with three sections. The top section is typically used for the address of the recipient. The middle section usually has information, such as the batch number, SSCC code, pallet contents, and best-before date. Barcodes are placed in the final section of the SSCC label. In order to remain GS1 compliant, your SSCC label must follow these requirements:
- Be 50mm from the edge of the pallet, carton, or container.
- Be positioned between 40mm and 80mm above the ground.
- Adhere to the exterior of the shipping unit. The SSCC label cannot be placed under shrink foil.
- Be placed on at least one side. However, placing the SSCC label on two sides is even better.
- Have only one SSCC label per side.
If you need SSCC labels for your business, Coast Label can help. Using only the highest quality materials and adhesives, we can print SSCC labels to help you efficiently navigate the shipping process. Contact us today to see the Coast Label difference.
