SSCC-Nummer
Also: SSCC, Serial Shipping Container Code, SSCC-Code, SSCC Nummer, Versandeinheitennummer, NVE, Nummer der Versandeinheit, NVE-Nummer
AI-generated
The SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code) is an internationally standardized 18-digit number that uniquely identifies a logistic unit – such as a pallet or shipping container – worldwide.
Key facts
- The SSCC is an 18-digit GS1 number that uniquely and unambiguously identifies a logistic unit – such as a pallet – worldwide.
- Unlike the GTIN, the SSCC does not identify the product, but rather the physical transport unit in its current configuration.
- An SSCC is typically transmitted together with an electronic advance shipping notice (DESADV), enabling a scan-based, ASN-driven goods receipt process.
- The number is assigned in accordance with the GS1 standard and requires a valid GS1 company prefix from the sending company.
What is the SSCC?
The Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) is an 18-digit identification number based on the GS1 standard, assigned uniquely worldwide to a logistic unit – such as a pallet, carton, container, or other transport packaging. While the GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) identifies a product as such, the SSCC identifies the physical shipping unit in a specific state at a specific point in time. The same pallet receives a new SSCC each time it is packed.
Structure and technical fundamentals
The SSCC consists of the GS1 Application Identifier (00), a single-digit extension digit, the GS1 company prefix of the sending company, a sequential serial number, and a check digit. The total length is always exactly 18 digits. The code is typically applied to the shipping label (also referred to as a logistics label or pallet label) in GS1-128 barcode format or as a GS1 DataMatrix. RFID transponders, which transmit the SSCC electronically, are also increasingly being used.
In day-to-day operations, the SSCC is typically generated in the sender's Warehouse Management System (WMS) or ERP as soon as a load unit is assembled. It is attached to the electronic advance shipping notice (DESADV in EDIFACT or comparable message formats), enabling the recipient to create the shipment in their system before its physical arrival.
Practical application
During goods receipt, warehouse staff scan the SSCC, the system matches it against the pre-notified advance shipping notice and posts the unit – without manually recording individual line items. This significantly accelerates the process and reduces data entry errors. In cross-docking, the SSCC enables pallets to be routed directly from goods receipt to the correct outbound dock, without any put-away. For track-and-trace across networks – such as with freight forwarders or in retail – the SSCC serves as the unique key through which all status updates are consolidated.
When selecting an appropriate SSCC process, you should pay attention to the following points: Is the SSCC generated automatically by the system and attached to the advance shipping notice, or is it created manually? Does your WMS fully support the GS1-128 print specification? Are your trading partners technically able to scan SSCCs and match them against advance shipping notices? How is the SSCC handled in the event of returns or stock transfers? These questions need to be clarified depending on the vendor and industry.
- Automatic SSCC generation in the WMS or ERP reduces manual intervention
- Integration with EDI processes (DESADV) is a prerequisite for realizing full benefits
- Unique assignment requires correctly maintained GS1 company prefixes
Related terms
- 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.
- Bewegungsdaten
Movement data captures all transactions and physical goods movements in the logistics process – from goods receipt and stock transfers to dispatch. It contains timestamps, quantities, locations and the units involved, and forms the basis for transparency, control and analysis in warehouse and…
- 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.
- Colli
Colli refers to a single package within a shipment – such as a carton, a crate, or a bundle. The number of colli represents the package count in shipping documents and serves as the basis for labeling, loading, and freight billing.
- 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.