Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC)

Identifying logistic units uniquely with an SSCC

A Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) is used to create a uniquely and unequivocally identifiable logistics unit and for it to be traced. For example, a pallet consisting of several trading units and which is assembled for transport, is given an SSCC so that it can be uniquely identified during its journey and storage.  

A logistics unit can either be homogenous or heterogeneous. 

Each logistic unit will have a different SSCC. One year after decommissioning the unit, the SSCC may be reused. 

Structure of an SSCC

Series number expansion  GS1 Company Prefix (54 M1 M2 ...) and serial number (X1 X2 ...)  Check digit
X  5   4  M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 X1 X2 X3 X4 X5 X6 X7 X8 X9 C
 5   4  M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 X1 X2 X3 X4 X5 X6 X7 X8
 5   4  M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 X1 X2 X3 X4 X5 X6 X7
 5   4  M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 X1 X2 X3 X4 X5 X6
 5   4  M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 M9 X1 X2 X3 X4 X5

The SSCC is the element that connects the physical flow of goods with the underlying information flow. Based on the GS1 Logistic Label, a logistics unit can be traced throughout the entire supply chain. The SSCC is mandatory on the logistics label (in barcode form) and is scanned at every location throughout the chain.