GS1 ID Key for Logistics Units – SSCC
Your supply chain and logistics processes must evolve to keep pace with economic and technological developments—just like your customers’ expectations. In an economic landscape where up to 80% of transport operations are outsourced and e-commerce is experiencing exponential growth, with shipment volumes expected to double by 2030, managing logistics units now requires more strategic decision-making than ever before.
The efficiency of these processes depends on the accurate identification and labeling of logistics units. Common standards used by all parties involved enable you to make every point in the supply chain more efficient.
What is a logistics unit?
A logistics unit is an item of any composition intended for transport or storage, and which needs to be managed throughout the entire supply chain. Examples include a cardboard box containing 12 skirts and 20 jackets in various sizes and colors, or a pallet with 40 boxes, each containing 12 paint cans.
Identification and Labeling of Logistics Units
SSCC
Logistics units are uniquely identified by the Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC). The SSCC is unique to each logistics unit and functions as a unique tracking number used throughout the supply chain and for the entire lifecycle of the logistics unit.
It is a key element for traceability, as it uniquely identifies each logistics unit and its assigned contents, allowing businesses to accurately track every unit.
The SSCC is referenced in every shipping or receiving document, as well as in all electronic messages related to the shipment.
Labelling with GS1-128 or encoding with EPC/RFid
The SSCC code is represented using the GS1-128 barcode with the application identifier AI (00), or via EPC/RFID labels. Scanning the SSCC on each logistics unit enables the tracking and tracing of individual units, linking the physical flow of products with the flow of related information.
Representation of the information of a logistics unit.
GS1 has defined a standard structure for logistics labels that can be used by all parties involved in the supply chain. The label is applied by the sender and contains all the necessary information for the handling and transportation of the logistics unit, both in plain text and barcode format.
The key feature of the GS1 logistics label is that it always includes the SSCC code, the unique GS1 serial number for the logistics unit. In addition, it contains essential information for the traceability of supply chain flows, such as the shipping unit GTIN, DLC (use-by date), and batch number.
Sharing of logistics unit information.
When SSCC code information is shared electronically via EDI or EPCIS, businesses can exchange data about the status of goods during their movement and reliably link them to transport information such as shipment details. This also enables the implementation of a wide range of applications, such as cross-docking, shipment routing, automated receiving, and more
Create the SSCC and print the GS1 logistics label using the GS1 Print service.
I need SSCC code
The creation of an SSCC code requires that your company has been assigned a GS1 Company Prefix.
After that, you can use our services to generate SSCC codes, represent them with GS1-128 symbols, and create a standard GS1 logistics label.
Benefits of Implementing SSCC and the GS1 Logistics Label
- Unique identification for all types of shipping units with a single label accepted across the global supply chain
- Traceability at every point in the supply chain
- Facilitation of receiving and shipping operations for both suppliers and customers
- Reliable information through the ability to automatically capture data
- Alignment of the physical flow of goods with the flow of information
- Improved control processes in warehousing and distribution
- Automation of processes such as data entry and inventory management
- Seamless integration with Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) messages
- Faster processing of deliveries
- Improved matching of deliveries with invoices
Logistics Units and SSCC – What You Need to Know
The SSCC is a critical key for traceability, as it uniquely identifies each logistics unit and its contents.
The SSCC allows businesses to track each logistics unit for more efficient ordering, shipping, and management processes.
The SSCC can be encoded in a barcode or EPC/RFID tag, ensuring that the logistics unit can be accurately and easily identified as it moves between trading partners anywhere in the world.
The SSCC is fully compliant with ISO/IEC 15459.
When SSCC data is shared electronically via EDI or EPCIS, it enables businesses to exchange information about the status of logistics units and link them to reliable related data, such as shipping details.
Would you also like to use international identification standards?
GS1 is the only organization that issues internationally recognized company prefixes, allowing you to create globally valid SSCCs and the corresponding GS1-128 barcodes for the unique identification of logistics units.
In Greece, the official and sole authorized body is GS1 Association Greece, which was established and is governed by businesses that use GS1 standards. It is responsible for assigning codes with the prefixes 520 & 521
