Standard Carrier Alpha Code Resources

Using the New SCAC® System

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SCAC Puts the Power Back in Your Hands!

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about SCAC

What is the Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC)?

The SCAC is a unique two-to-four-letter code used to identify transportation companies. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA) developed the SCAC identification codes in the late 1960s to facilitate computerization in the transportation industry. The SCAC has many applications in the transportation industry today. It is used to identify company names in electronic data interchange (EDI) transactions, intermodal interchange agreements (such as the UIIA), and computerized, freight-and passenger-transportation payment systems (Cass Information Systems, CorPay Solutions, Inc., etc.)

When are SCACs required?
  • SCACs are required when doing business with all U.S. Government Agencies.
  • SCACs are required when doing business with many commercial shippers, including, but not limited to, those in the automobile, petroleum, forest products, and chemical industries.
  • SCACs are required for suppliers to retail businesses and carriers engaged in railroad piggyback trailer and ocean container drayage.
  • SCACs are required for carriers who use the Uniform Intermodal Interchange Agreement (UIIA).
  • SCACs are required for the Customs and Border Protection’s Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), Automated Manifest (AMS) and Pre-Arrival Processing (PAPS) Systems, and the Surface Transportation Board (formerly Interstate Commerce Commission) tariff filing system.
When do we have to renew our SCAC?
  • For all existing codes that were purchased or renewed in year 2022, the codes will need to be renewed by June 30. All newly assigned SCAC’s after April 10, 2023, are due for renewal 365 days from the date of assignment.
  • Why are we receiving the Invoice in April instead of May this year?
    • To ensure that you receive your invoices early enough so that we receive renewal payments by July 1st, we are emailing the invoices in April. After year 2023, your invoices will be sent via email 30/60/90 days prior to expiry date.
What happens if I do not renew my SCAC assignment(s)?
  • SCACs that are not renewed will be cancelled and made available for reassignment to other companies after three years of expiration.
How do I apply for the Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC)
  • Visit our website here.
  • If you already have an account, you can login. If not, you can enter your information and pay on the same page.

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