Nummer der Versandeinheit (NVE)
Also: NVE, SSCC, Serial Shipping Container Code, Nummer der Versandeinheit, Versandeinheitsnummer, NVEs
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The Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC), known in German as NVE (Nummer der Versandeinheit), is a globally unique identification number for a physical transport unit such as a pallet or package.
Key facts
- The NVE is the German term for the SSCC and uniquely identifies a physical shipping unit worldwide using an 18-digit number.
- It is based on the GS1 company prefix and must never be issued twice – not even after a reuse embargo period.
- In combination with the DESADV (electronic advance shipping notice), the SSCC enables scan-based, paperless goods receipt.
- The logistics label bearing the SSCC frequently includes additional GS1 attributes such as GTIN, batch number, or best-before date, thereby accelerating the entire process chain.
- Without a valid GS1 company prefix, no compliant SSCC numbers can be generated.
What is the Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC)?
The Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) – referred to in German as Nummer der Versandeinheit (NVE) – uniquely identifies a physical transport or shipping unit worldwide, such as a pallet, carton, or bundle. The NVE/SSCC is administered by GS1. Its 18-digit numeric structure consists of an extension digit, the GS1 company prefix, and a sequential serial number, completed by a check digit. No two shipping units may share the same SSCC – even across company boundaries.
How does the SSCC work in practice?
The SSCC is typically generated during the packing or palletizing process and printed on a GS1-compliant logistics label. In addition to the SSCC, this label often contains further information such as GTIN, batch number, best-before date, or weight – encoded in a GS1-128 barcode or as a DataMatrix. The SSCC is then transmitted to the recipient via an electronic advance shipping notice (DESADV/ASN). At goods receipt, the recipient can scan the printed SSCC and immediately retrieve the expected contents from the advance shipping record, without capturing each line item individually. In cross-docking, the SSCC enables seamless forwarding of a shipping unit without rescanning all contained items. The SSCC is also used as the key for the movement history of a load unit within internal warehouse management systems.
What matters when implementing the SSCC?
Organizations wishing to use the SSCC productively must fulfil several prerequisites:
- A valid GS1 company prefix is mandatory, as the uniqueness of the numbers depends on it.
- The WMS or ERP must automatically assign, manage, and track SSCC numbers to prevent accidental duplication.
- Suppliers and logistics service providers must be familiar with and support the same structure – especially when advance shipping notices (DESADV) are involved.
- The print quality of the logistics label must be GS1-compliant to ensure reliable scanning at all stations.
A common error in practice is the reuse of SSCC numbers after a self-imposed embargo period has elapsed. GS1 recommends a minimum embargo period of one year. Whether and how a given system enforces this period varies by vendor and should be specifically evaluated during system selection.
Related terms
- Artikelnummer
The item number is an internally assigned, unique identifier that unambiguously identifies an article within the inventory management and warehouse system. It forms the basis for postings, purchase orders, and communication between purchasing, warehousing, and production.
- Artikelstammdaten
Item master data refers to the permanently valid base data of an item – such as dimensions, weight, packaging units, hazardous goods classification, and best-before date relevance. It forms the foundation for all logistical, procurement-related, and system-driven processes along the supply chain.
- Avisierung
Pre-advice refers to the advance notification of a delivery by the supplier to the recipient before the goods arrive. It enables the warehouse to plan staffing, dock capacity, and put-away processes in a timely manner.
- Barcode
A barcode is a machine-readable optical code that represents information as a pattern of bars and spaces or as a two-dimensional matrix. It enables the automatic identification of items, load carriers, and documents along the entire supply chain.
- Barcodescanner
A barcode scanner is an optical reading device that captures printed barcodes and converts them into machine-readable data. It is used in intralogistics for the seamless identification of goods, load carriers, and storage locations.
- Charge
A batch is a uniquely identifiable quantity of products manufactured or processed under identical conditions. It forms the basis for traceability, quality control, and legally required recall processes throughout the entire supply chain.
- Chargenrückverfolgung
Batch traceability refers to the complete and uninterrupted trackability of products and materials along the supply chain based on their batch assignment. It enables companies to quickly identify and selectively block all affected quantities in the event of a quality issue or recall.
- Cross-Docking
Cross-docking is a logistics method in which goods are transferred directly from inbound to outbound transport at a transshipment point, without going through conventional put-away and storage.
- Cross-Docking
Cross-docking refers to a goods handling process in which items are transferred directly from inbound receiving to outbound shipping without interim storage. The goal is to reduce throughput times and avoid warehousing costs.
- DESADV
DESADV (Dispatch Advice) is a standardized EDI message in EDIFACT format that electronically announces an upcoming delivery. It transmits structured information on packaging units, items, quantities, and identifiers such as the SSCC to the goods recipient.
- Data Matrix
Data Matrix is a two-dimensional barcode that stores significantly more information in a very small area than conventional 1D barcodes. Thanks to integrated error correction, it remains reliably readable even when partially damaged or soiled.