Scac Code Application for Freight Brokers and Carriers

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For freight brokers and carriers, the SCAC code application is a crucial step in the logistics industry.

The SCAC code is a unique identifier assigned to each company.

It's used to identify and track shipments, and it's often required by shippers and carriers.

In the United States, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is responsible for assigning SCAC codes.

The SCAC code application process typically takes a few days to a week to complete.

Once a company receives its SCAC code, it can start using it to identify its shipments.

What is Standard Carrier Alpha Code

The Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) is a two to four-letter code used to identify vessel operating common carriers (VOCC) in computer systems and shipping documents. It's essential for freight bills, bills of lading, packing lists, and purchase orders.

The SCAC code was developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), and is vital for customs compliance, especially when working with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

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You can find SCAC codes for carriers online, including those for major international carriers like CMA CGM, COSCO, and Emirates.

Here are some examples of SCAC codes for big international carriers:

In the trucking industry, SCAC codes are crucial for identifying carriers and managing shipments.

Importance and Benefits

The SCAC code is a game-changer for transportation companies, allowing them to register their shipping documents digitally and access them easily. This is especially important for companies that need to keep their computer systems optimized to use SCAC.

The SCAC code is mandatory in certain circumstances, and it efficiently monitors transportation companies across various transport modes, such as motor vehicles, railway lines, and waterways. This helps ensure that shipments are tracked and traced accurately.

Having a SCAC code and EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) integration can benefit your business by ensuring transparency and efficiency of all communications. This is especially important in the logistics and transportation industry, where efficiency and transparency are often lacking.

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Here are some of the benefits of SCAC codes and EDI integration:

  • Data is streamlined with quicker response times across all divisions and departments.
  • Information can be managed, stored, and disseminated using automation.
  • Error-free information can be accessed quickly by stakeholders in real time and without delays.
  • Shipping and processing of orders, receipts, invoices, and payments will be efficient due to integrated communication systems.
  • Trading capabilities.
  • Partner relations will improve with proper procedures in place.
  • Consistent Intermodal transportation will improve due to unified communication channels.

SCAC codes also improve accuracy, eliminating identification errors and reducing mistakes in billing, shipment routing, and documentation. This is a huge advantage for companies that need to track and trace their shipments accurately.

Who Needs a Standard Carrier Alpha Code

To get a Standard Carrier Alpha Code, you'll need to determine your eligibility. SCAC codes are primarily required for freight carriers, transportation companies, brokers, freight forwarders, and railroads. If you're in one of these businesses, you'll need to apply for a SCAC code to participate in industry processes like Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or U.S. Customs.

You can apply for a SCAC code digitally in four easy steps. These steps include determining your eligibility, gathering information, applying online and paying the fee, and receiving your code. The fee is approximately $86, and you'll receive your code within 48 hours.

Freight forwarders, logistics brokers, and customs agents often have access to SCAC codes as part of their operations and can help you find the code for a specific carrier. You can also search for SCAC codes online, but be sure to use a reliable source to get accurate information.

Freight and Logistics Brokers

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Freight and logistics brokers have access to SCAC codes as part of their operations and can help you find the code for a specific carrier. They often work with freight forwarders, logistics brokers, and customs agents who have access to SCAC codes.

Freight forwarders, logistics brokers, and customs agents can help you find the SCAC code you're looking for by using their resources and expertise. They can provide valuable assistance in verifying or finding the SCAC code.

Freight Brokers Need a

Freight brokers need a Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) to participate in the Uniform Intermodal Interchange Agreement. This code is mandatory for freight brokers to collaborate with certain shippers and customers.

To obtain a SCAC code, freight brokers can apply to the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). The NMFTA issues and manages SCAC codes, and the application process can be completed online.

Freight brokers must keep their SCAC code active annually. This code is essential for tasks such as auditing freight bills and managing payment systems.

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Here are some of the biggest international carriers and their SCAC codes:

Freight brokers can also consult freight and logistics brokers, who often have access to SCAC codes as part of their operations.

Getting a Standard Carrier Alpha Code

The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is responsible for issuing and managing SCAC codes. You can obtain it by following their application process on their official website.

To apply for a SCAC code, you'll need to determine your eligibility - SCAC codes are issued to carriers and logistics companies. You'll also need to gather information such as your company name, contact details, and carrier type.

The NMFTA website allows you to apply online and pay the fee (approximately $86), and you'll receive your SCAC code within 48 hours. Each SCAC code is assigned by the NMFTA, and you can apply, renew, and manage your code online in real-time.

Here's a step-by-step guide to applying for a SCAC code:

  • Determine your eligibility: SCAC codes are issued to carriers and logistics companies.
  • Gather information: Prepare business details like your company name, contact details, and carrier type.
  • Apply online and pay: Visit the NMFTA website to submit your application and pay the fee (approximately $86).
  • Receive your code: You'll receive your SCAC code within 48 hours.

Note that the NMFTA doesn't provide codes for freight containers also used outside of North America, intermodal chassis, and trailers, or non-railroad owned rail cars. If your containers also operate outside the region, you should contact the Bureau International des Containers (BIC) in France.

How It Works and Use

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The SCAC code is used across shipping documents, supporting Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), which allows businesses to exchange data electronically and improve communication with customs and partners. This speeds up customs clearance and keeps customers and partners informed every step of the way.

The SCAC code appears on shipping documents such as bills of lading and is used to identify the carrier. Customs officials use the SCAC code to quickly identify the carrier, which streamlines the customs clearance process.

Here's a breakdown of how the SCAC code is used in various shipping documents:

  • Bill of lading
  • Customs documentation for cross-border shipping
  • Government agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection

The SCAC code is also used in logistics management systems, including Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, to integrate carrier data seamlessly. This integration allows for real-time tracking, better decision-making, and improved efficiency in the supply chain.

How It Works

The SCAC code is a unique identifier assigned to transportation carriers, including trucking companies, railroads, and shipping lines. It's managed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) and simplifies the process of identifying carriers within logistics and transportation systems.

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The primary purpose of the SCAC code is to provide a standardized method for identifying carriers in various electronic and paper-based documents. This ensures that all parties involved can efficiently communicate and coordinate without confusion.

To obtain an SCAC code, you can apply digitally in four easy steps: determine your eligibility, gather information, apply online and pay, and receive your code. The NMFTA website allows you to submit your application and pay the fee (approximately $86), and you'll receive your SCAC code within 48 hours.

Once you receive your SCAC code, it will be used in various industry-related activities, such as on shipping documents, in customs documentation, and when working with government agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The SCAC code is instrumental in enhancing communication between carriers and their partners, preventing miscommunication and ensuring that shipments are directed to the correct carrier. It's also used to streamline documentation, reducing errors and discrepancies in the shipping process.

Here's a list of some of the biggest international carriers and their SCAC codes:

Structure

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SCAC codes are typically short and sweet, consisting of two to four letters. For example, "ABCD" or "XYZ" - that's it!

Each code is unique to a specific carrier, allowing for precise tracking and management of shipments. This helps reduce errors and streamline operations in logistics systems.

Time to Receive

You can expect to receive your SCAC code within a few hours or the same day if you submit your application between 3:00 PM EST, Monday through Friday.

If you submit your application after 3:00 PM, there may be delays, and the exact delivery time cannot be guaranteed.

Typically, you'll receive your SCAC code by email within 24 hours of processing your application.

However, if there's a delay, don't hesitate to contact the issuer to ensure your application has been sent and no errors have been made.

NMFTA will process your request and send your official SCAC code to your provided email or mailing address once approved.

In industries with high SCAC code requests, like trucking, you may encounter longer processing times due to the increased demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the application fee for SCAC code?

The SCAC application fee is $97.00, or $105.00 if paid by check through a Canadian bank. Check our website for more information on the application process.

Does every carrier have a SCAC code?

Most carriers have a SCAC code, but there is an exception for companies that only operate in North America with freight containers.

Who creates SCAC codes?

SCAC codes are assigned by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA), except for specific cases such as container identification and rail operations.

How long is a SCAC code good for?

A SCAC code is valid for one year, from July 1st to June 30th of the following year. It must be renewed annually to remain active.

Jay Matsuda

Lead Writer

Jay Matsuda is an accomplished writer and blogger who has been sharing his insights and experiences with readers for over a decade. He has a talent for crafting engaging content that resonates with audiences, whether he's writing about travel, food, or personal growth. With a deep passion for exploring new places and meeting new people, Jay brings a unique perspective to everything he writes.

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