Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) Labels – A Complete Guide to SSCC Labels and SSCC Barcodes

What is an SSCC Label

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Every day, millions of pallets and cartons containing products are shipped and distributed around the world. In order to accurately identify, track and manage these packages, an effective and efficient labelling system was needed – and this is where SSCC labels and barcodes come into play. 

SSCC stands for Serial Shipping Container Code. SSCC is a globally recognised standard developed and managed by GS1, an international non-profit organisation dedicated to the development and maintenance of global standards used in supply chain management. 

As SSCC is a well-proven and globally recognised method of identifying and tracking packages, many businesses have adopted the standard for their own use. In fact, the shipping and logistics industries that follow GS1 standards are mandated by GS1 to use an SSCC on a transport label. 

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of what SSCC labels are, their anatomy, requirements, usage and benefits. We will also offer some best practices for designing, printing and placing SSCC labels on containers.

First off, let’s start with the basics – what are SSCC labels?

What is a Serial Shipping Container Code Label?

Serial Shipping Container Code labels are a type of label that provides detailed information about a particular shipment. They provide details such as the origin and destination of the shipment, their quantity & weight, shipment contents, location codes and other relevant information like lot numbers and expiration dates – all along with an SSCC code and SSCC barcode.

In other words, the GS1 logistics SSCC label is a standardised format for conveying specific information about a logistic unit.

The primary function of a GS1 logistics SSCC label is to provide clear and concise details in an organised and easily interpretable way to simplify the process of moving products through the entire supply chain quickly and efficiently.

Example of SSCC label

SSCC Label vs Logistics Label - What's The Difference?

Logistics labels, pallet labels, shipping labels and SSCC labels are some commonly used terms in the shipping and logistics industry. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they are actually different.

Any label designed to be affixed to a shipping container, pallet or other packages for easy identification of its contents is considered a logistics label, pallet label or shipping label. However, if any label contains an SSCC code and barcode, it is regarded as an SSCC label.

What is a Serial Shipping Container Code?

An SSCC is a unique 18-digit numeric code that identifies logistics units. SSCC is generated during packaging at one party (shipping party) and loses its value after it has been received and unpacked by another party (receiving party).

Think of SSCC as a car’s licence plate but for shipping units. As SSCC code is also called Serialized Master Carton Code, SSCC-18, GTIN-18, or DUN-18. SSCC is one of twelve GS1 ID keys that are currently available.

The SSCC code assigned to a particular shipping unit is globally unique and remains the same for the unit throughout its entire journey from the point of origin to its final destination. It is also used in Advance Ship Notice (ASN or Advanced Shipping Notice) EDI transactions.

SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code) should not be confused with the GRAI (Global Returnable Asset Identifier) or the GIAI (Global Individual Asset Identifier) codes.

GRAI and GIAI are used to indicate serialised objects inside each logistics unit, while SSCC is used to identify a logistics unit as a whole.

What is a Serial Shipping Container Code Barcode?

SSCC Barcode

An SSCC barcode is a type of barcode that encodes the SSCC code into a machine-readable format that can be scanned by automated data capture systems such as barcode scanners and RFID readers.

Encoding an SSCC into a barcode allows for a quick, accurate and automated procedure of obtaining the SSCC code from an SSCC label which has many benefits, such as.

  • Faster identification of logistics units
  • Reducing manual work
  • Eliminating manual data entry errors
  • Reducing the time required to collect shipping data
  • Automating the entire product management process
 

SSCC is most commonly encoded in a GS1-128 barcode, a variable length, liner barcode symbology capable of encoding the full 128 ASCII character set. Other barcode symbologies such as GS1 DataMatrix, GS1 QR Code barcode, Electronic Product Code (EPC) and/or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag can also be used.

SSCC Label Requirements

Requirements of SSCC label

For a label to be considered a GS1-compliant SSCC label, it must have two GS1 ID Keys –

  1. Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC)
  2. Global Trade Identification Number (GTIN)
 

Let us understand what a GS1 ID Key is.

GS1 ID keys are a set of codes developed by GS1 to uniquely identify different objects in the supply chain.

GS1 ID keys provide businesses with streamlined ways to access information about products in their supply chains and share this information with trading partners. A GS1 ID key can be assigned to products, documents, physical locations and more.

As GS1 ID keys are globally recognised and unique, they can be shared across different organisations or trading partners, significantly improving product information’s visibility and communication throughout the entire ecosystem.

Currently, twelve GS1 ID keys are available for use, as shown in the table below.

ID Key
Used to Identify
Global Trade Item Number (GTIN)
Products and services
Global Location Number (GLN)
Parties and locations
Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC)
Logistics units
Global Returnable Asset Identifier (GRAI)
Returnable assets
Global Individual Asset Identifier (GIAI)
Assets
Global Service Relation Number (GSRN)
Service provider and recipient relationships
Global Document Type Identifier (GDTI)
Documents
Global Identification Number for Consignment (GINC)
Consignments
Global Shipment Identification Number (GSIN)
Shipments
Global Coupon Number (GCN)
Coupons
Component/Part Identifier (CPID)
Components and parts
Global Model Number (GMN)
Product model

To start using GS1 ID Keys, your organisation must first become a member of GS1. Joining GS1 allows your organisation to receive a GS1 Company Prefix (more on it later), which serves as a foundation for creating valid GS1 ID keys.

SSCC Label Format

Six points on SSCC label format

GS1 has established a specific format that must be followed when generating SSCC labels. This format is mandatory and must not be altered in any way. 

GS1 SSCC label is divided into three building blocks, Top, Middle and Bottom. 

Top Building Block

The top building block is a free text area for vendors to provide.

  1. Essential information related to their processes, and,
  2. Include additional details about the logistic unit that may not be encoded in the barcodes.
 

This block may contain the name and logo of the shipper & receiver, shipping address, receiving address, shipment number and more.

Middle Building Block

The middle building block is the human-readable area of the SSCC label. It displays the information encoded in the barcode and other additional data not represented in the barcodes by using data titles rather than AIs (Application Identifiers).

Below are all elements which are mandatory to be included in this block.

  • SSCC Number (18 digits)
  • Content (with GTIN barcode number)
  • Count
  • Use By and Batch Lot (mandatory if displayed on each carton)

Bottom Building Block

The bottom building block is where all the barcodes and their corresponding Human Readable Interpretations (HRI) are located.

GS1 mandates the presence of GTIN and SSCC barcodes with their HRI in this block. Additional barcodes can be added based on your company’s specific requirements.

SSCC Barcode Structure

Anatomy of SSCC Barcode

SSCC barcode is composed of 18 digits and comprises five elements, namely,

  1. GS1 Application Identifier
  2. Extension Digit
  3. GS1 Company Prefix
  4. Serial Reference
  5. Check Digit 

GS1 Application Identifier

GS1 Application Identifiers (AIs) are numeric prefixes that define the meaning and format of encoded data elements in barcodes and EPC/RFID tags.

For SSCC barcodes, the mandatory AI is (00), which indicates that the next 18 digits of data represent a Serial Shipping Container Code.

Extension Digit

The extension digit is the first value of the SSCC data field and is used to increase the number of possible Serial Reference combinations within the SSCC. It is a single digit and can be any numerical value from 0 to 9 chosen by the company that generates the SSCC. 

GS1 Company Prefix

The GS1 Company Prefix is a globally unique number assigned by GS1, which identifies the company that owns the barcode and the product it’s on.

GS1 Company Prefix consists of 7 to 9 digits, depending on the country where the company is registered. It remains the same for all SSCC barcodes generated by a company. 

Serial Reference

The Serial Reference is a unique number identifying each logistic unit, such as a carton, pallet, or shipping container.

The Serial Reference consists of six to nine characters, depending on the length of the GS1 Company Prefix assigned to a particular business. For example, if the GS1 Company Prefix is seven digits long, then the Serial Reference will be nine digits in length; similarly, if the company prefix is ten digits long, then the Serial Reference will consist of six digits.

The method used to assign a Serial Reference is at the discretion of the company issuing the SSCC number. A Serial Reference must not be reused for at least twelve months in order to ensure its uniqueness.

The GS1 Company Prefix and Serial Reference, when combined, always consist of 16 digits.

Check Digit

The final element of the SSCC barcode is the Check Digit. It’s a last, single numerical character between 0 and 9 calculated using a mathematical formula called Modulo-10 or Luhn Algorithm which considers all other 17 digits within the SSCC barcode.

The Check Digit helps to ensure that the SSCC number has been correctly entered and is not a victim of transposition errors while keying in the data. It also helps verify that the information encoded in the barcode is correct and has not been tampered with.

Advantages of an SSCC Label

List of twelve points on advantages of an SSCC Label

Here are some benefits of using SSCC labels.

  • Provides a global industry standard to avoid the use of multiple label types
  • Uniquely identifies logistical units for worldwide tracking and identification
  • Helps automate stock management
  • Quickly locates which products are on which pallets
  • Provides information on when and where a logistics unit will be or was delivered
  • Improves data integrity
  • Allows for the smooth processing of high volumes of shipments
  • Provides an efficient means of communication with business and trade partners
  • Reduce manual labour, paperwork and human data entry errors
  • Provides easy integration with all GS1 supply chain processes
  • Can be encoded in EPC/RFID tags for simple scanning or reading
  • Capable of linking barcode or EPC/RFID tag information to electronic communications
  • Allows for quick lookup of transactional data
  • Simplifies electronic messaging between firms by utilising ASNs
  • Can be used at any stage in the supply chain for tracking shipment
  • Allows users to specifically identify a dispatch, a journey, or an arrival either within or between firms
  • Can be used for both inter-company and intra-company transactions
  • Includes a standardised vendor numbering scheme that utilises the GS1 Company Prefix to ensure the number cannot be duplicated

How to Design, Print and Place an SSCC Label- Things to Keep In Mind

As SSCC labels are standardised and an essential part of supply chain management, certain rules and regulations must be followed while designing and printing them. Here are some best practices you should keep in mind when designing, printing and placing SSCC labels.

SSCC Label Layout Rules

List of six label layout rules

As previously mentioned, every SSCC label is divided into three sections, the Top building block, the Middle building block and the Bottom building block. GS1 has established specific rules for each section to ensure the information is correctly displayed. 

Top Building Block

In the top building block, all text and imagery must be clearly legible. The text elements should not be less than 3 mm (0.12 in) in height.

Middle Building Block

The following rules apply to the middle building block.

  • All barcoded data elements must be accompanied by text with data titles.
  • All data content must be at least 7 mm (0.28 inch) in height.
  • If a GS1 2D barcode is used, it should be placed to the right of the text within the middle building block.
  • Data titles should be provided for all AIs encoded in the barcodes.
  • If trading partners have not agreed on a particular language, data titles must be printed in English only. If required, a second language can be added.
  • All Data titles must appear in UPPERCASE only.
  • To minimise misunderstanding, the data title for dates should be accompanied by the following chosen format ie. DD.MM.YYYY (example – 27.02.2023). This differs from the format of the barcode, which is always YYMMDD.

Bottom Building Block

The bottom building block must include the GTIN barcode and GS1-128 SSCC barcode.

GS1-128 barcodes must use the special Function 1 character (FNC1) after the start character to be distinguished from Code 128 barcodes. 

Portrait and Landscape orientations of SSCC labels

SSCC Label Orientation

GS1 allows two common orientations for SSCC labels, Landscape and Portrait. The organisation does not provide specific guidelines for the orientation. It is up to the user to choose which orientation best suits their needs.

However, the label’s orientation should be chosen based on the location where the label will be placed. For example, if the label is placed on the container’s side, it should be in Portrait mode. On the other hand, if it is placed on the top or bottom end of the container, it should be in Landscape mode.

SSCC Label Size

SSCC label size

Most GS1 Logistic Label users require labels that are tailored to their specific needs, taking into account factors such as the desired amount of data, the type of barcode used, and the size of the item to be labelled. Depending on these factors, labels can be of any size; however, most businesses find that adopting one of the standard sizes is sufficient to meet their requirements.

GS1 recommends the following label sizes.

  • Compact Label – A6 or 4 x 6 inches (105 mm x 148 mm). Suitable for encoding only the SSCC or the SSCC with limited additional data. A6 is the minimum label size recommended by GS1. 
  • Large Label – A5 or 6 x 8 inches (148 mm x 210 mm). Useful when additional data, such as trade item data, is required. Examples include pallet labels and case labels.
  • Other Size Label – A4 or bigger. Any other label dimensions are usually determined by data requirements or logistic unit size.

SSCC Label Placement

The correct placement of an SSCC label is essential for ensuring accurate data collection. The specific location for SSCC labels depends on the container’s size, shape and type. Here are the rules for SSCC label placement.

For Placing Labels on Larger Logistic Units (Pallets, Roll Cages, etc.)

Four points about SSCC label placement for larger logistics unit
  • The SSCC barcode label on all types of pallets must be placed between the 400 millimetres (16 inches) and 800 millimetres (32 inches) mark from the base. If a pallet is shorter than 400 millimetres (16 inches), the barcode label should be positioned as high up as possible while still being adequately protected.
  • The SSCC barcode, including its Quiet Zones, must be positioned at least 50 millimetres (2.0 inches) away from the edge of any vertical surface to ensure it is not damaged.
  • For logistic units, it is recommended that at least one label be attached to the item. For pallets, attaching two labels with identical information is preferable to ensure visibility regardless of how they are stored (e.g. long edge or short edge). On rolling logistic units, a single label on one side should be sufficient.

Note – There are no specific rules for the optimal placement (left, middle or right) of labels on the side of a container. However, considering that most forklift operators are right-handed, it is best to position the labels on the right side of each side to ensure an ergonomic and efficient scanning process. 

For Placing Labels on Smaller Logistic Units (Including Parcels)

SSCC label placement for smaller logistics unit
  • For cartons, and outer cases, the barcode label must be placed 32 millimetres (1.25 inches) high from the natural base of the item.
  • The SSCC barcode, including its Quiet Zones, must be positioned at least 19 millimetres (0.75 inches) away from the edge of any vertical surface to ensure it is not damaged.
  • Each logistic unit must have at least one label.

Note – For situations where both a Carton / Outer Case Label and a GS1 Logistic Label need to be applied, it is recommended that the GS1 Logistic Label be placed on the left side of the Carton / Outer Case Label. This placement must ensure that information printed on the Carton / Outer Case Label remains visible.

Furthermore, when arranging the Carton / Outer Case Label and GS1 Logistic Label, care should be taken to avoid any potential obscuring of either label.

For Placing Labels on Stacked Pallets

What is stacked pallets and SSCC label placement for stacked pallets

Stacked pallets, commonly referred to as sandwich pallets, are created when multiple pallets are stacked together to be shipped as a unit.

When pallets are stacked, they should be treated as independent logistic units, and each pallet should be assigned a unique SSCC. However, if the stacked pallet is sent as a unit and physically joined via shrink-wrap, straps, or other appropriate methods, it should be treated as a single logistic unit.

Rules for Single Item Pallets - Stretch Wrapped

SSCC label placement for single item placement - stretch wrapped
  • SSCC label should be applied outside of the stretch wrap.
  • Two identical labels must be placed on opposite sides of the pallet where the forklift will enter the pallet.
  • The label should be placed 600 mm (23.62 inches) from the ground and between 50 mm and 100 mm (1.97 inches and 3.94 inches) from the right-hand edge of the pallet. However, the label should not be –
    • Closer than 800 mm (31.50 inches) from the top of the pallet
    • Closer than 400 mm (15.75 inches) from the bottom of the pallet
    • Closer than 50 mm (1.97 inches) from the right-hand edge of the pallet
    • At more than 5° variation from the vertical alignment 

 

Note – When a pallet does not require stretch wrapping, the label should be placed on the carton itself ( instead of the outside of the stretch wrap), taking care to ensure that it does not bridge across two separate cartons.

Rules for Multiple Item Pallets - Stretch Wrapped

SSCC label placement for multiple item pallet - stretch wrapped
  • Two identical labels must be placed on opposite sides of the pallet where the forklift will enter the pallet.
  • If the pallets are wrapped together, the label shall be applied to the cartons underneath the stretch wrap as the wrap will be cut away.
  • If the pallets are wrapped individually, the label shall be applied to the outside of the stretch wrap.

Rules for Single Layer Pallets - Stretch Wrapped

Two points on SSCC label placement for single layer pallets - stretch wrapped
  • Two identical labels must be placed on opposite sides of the pallet where the forklift will enter the pallet.
  • If the height of a single-layer pallet is less than 400 mm (15.75 inches), the SSCC label should be placed outside of the stretch wrap as high up as possible while still being adequately protected.
  • If the height of a single-layer pallet is 400 mm or more, the SSCC label should be placed outside of the stretch wrap and should be folded in such a way that the human-readable portion is over the horizontal surface of the carton.

Rules for Mixed Pallets for Direct-to-Store Deliveries

SSCC label placement for mixed pallets for direct to store deliveries
  • Two identical labels must be placed on opposite sides of the pallet where the forklift will enter the pallet.
  • If a pallet contains more than one type of product from the same purchase order, the corresponding label should only include the SSCC portion of the label and no individual GTIN detail (as there are multiple products on the pallet).

SSCC Barcode Designing Rules

GS1 highly recommends using GS1-128 barcode for encoding SSCC and placing it on the container.

Here are some rules for GS1-128 barcode designing for SSCC.

Concatenation

A GS1-128 barcode contains one or more element strings. An element string consists of a GS1 Application Identifier and the data that follows it. When two or more element strings are joined together in a GS1-128 barcode, it is known as concatenation. Concatenation is an efficient method for encoding several AIs in a single barcode and is used to conserve label space and improve scanning operations.

  • The SSCC, as defined by AI (00), must always appear in the lowest barcode on the SSCC label.
  • The SSCC can be printed on its own or concatenated with other data in the same barcode. However, concatenation should never be used with SSCC on cartons and outer cases and on A6 / 4×6 labels. 
Two points about concatenation of SSCC barcode
Two barcode designing rules of X-Dimension of the SSCC barcode

X-dimension (Barcode size)

The X-dimension, also called module width, is the specified width of the narrowest bar in a barcode symbol. 

  • The GS1-128 barcode symbol must adhere to a specified X-dimension range, which is 0.495 mm (0.02 inches) to 0.94 mm (0.04 inches). GS1 recommends having an X-dimension of 0.495 mm (0.02 inches) for optimal performance.
  • When using multiple barcodes, it is important to ensure they all have similar X dimensions. Doing so will improve the performance of scanning systems, making them more efficient in recognising and interpreting the data encoded in the barcodes.

Note – Creating a barcode with an X-dimension that is at the upper end of the permitted range can help ensure reliable scanning, even in challenging application environments.

Barcode Height

The barcode high, also called module height, is the vertical distance from the top of a bar to the bottom of a bar in a barcode symbol. 

  • GS1-128 barcodes must have a minimum height of 31.75 mm (1.25 inches). This measurement applies only to the barcode itself and not the accompanying Human Readable Interpretation beneath it. 
Barcode height of SSCC barcode
Barcode designing rules of quite zone in SSCC barcode

Quiet zones / Light margins

Quiet Zones, also known as Light margins, are the empty spaces on a barcode’s left and right margins. This empty space assists a barcode scanner in identifying the barcode symbol and improving scanning accuracy.

  • Barcodes should be printed with a quiet zone of at least ten times the X dimension. Placing the barcode in the centre of the label will ensure the quiet zones are respected.

Barcode Orientation

The orientation of barcode symbols on a logistic unit must be horizontal, also known as picket fence orientation. This means that the bars and spaces of the barcode should be arranged perpendicular to the base on which the unit stands. 

Barcode orientation of SSCC barcode
Human readable interpretation of SSCC barcode

Human Readable Interpretation (HRI)

Human Readable Interpretation (HRI) are the characters that appear beneath or above a barcode. These characters are an interpretation of the data encoded in the barcode. HRI act as a backup to the barcode in case it is damaged or unreadable by a scanner.

  • All data encoded in each barcode should be provided beneath the symbol. Brackets (parentheses) should be used to indicate each AI but must not be encoded in the barcode.
  • HRI shall be shown in characters that are at least 3 mm high and clearly legible.

AI Uniqueness (No Repetition)

  • Each GS1 Application Identifier (AI) can only appear once on a GS1 logistic label.
Application Identifier on SSCC Barcode

SSCC Printing Rules

AI printing rules and list of eight issues which labels should not have

Printing a label with the correct specifications is essential to ensure compliance with GS1 standards and meet the requirements of each business or trading partner. Quality is paramount, as labels that fall short in terms of precision and accuracy lead to costly problems down the line. 

Therefore, it is highly recommended to use thermal printers instead of inkjet or laser printers for printing SSCC labels. Thermal printers use heat to print information directly onto the label, providing superior printing quality.

The GS1 recommends a specific print quality that should meet the ISO 1.5/10/670 specification. 

For a scannable SSCC label, it is essential to ensure that the printing is of high quality and without blemishes or disruptions. Please ensure that the labels do not have any common issues, such as.

  • Printhead defects
  • Bleeding or ill-defined bars
  • Faded print
  • Torn labels
  • Folded or creased labels
  • Mismatched labels (i.e. two different labels on one pallet)
  • Multiple labels on any fork entry side of the pallet
  • Labels placed over the top of existing GTIN barcodes

Areas of Non-Compliance - The Reasons Why SSCC Label May Get Rejected

List of four reasons why SSCC label is rejected

When it comes to SSCC labelling, there are four major issues that can impair the effectiveness of the supply chain and lead to rejections or delays of the shipments.

The four main areas of non-compliance with SSCC labels are. 

  • Poor Print Quality or Label Quality
  • Incorrect Barcode Type
  • Incorrect or Inadequate SSCC Data
  • Mismatching Labels on the Logistic Unit

Poor Print Quality or Label Quality

Poor print quality or label quality is one of the most common causes of SSCC labelling rejections. Poor print quality can lead to unreadable barcodes, which in turn can cause incorrect data capture, resulting in delays and errors down the line.

Businesses should purchase top-tier thermal printers and practice consistent thermal printer maintenance to ensure optimal print quality. Printer maintenance includes regular inspections and cleaning of printer components such as thermal printhead and platen roller. Taking these proactive steps can help mitigate any potential issues down the line.

Our thermal printer maintenance guide will help you learn how to keep thermal printers in peak condition.

Another way to ensure optimal label quality is to use high-quality labels specifically designed for thermal printers. Inferior labels can cause print quality degradation, resulting in poor SSCC data scanability and reduced logistics label efficiency. To guarantee optimal performance, selecting a label that can withstand external conditions such as extreme temperatures, moisture, and even direct sunlight is also essential.

At Triton Store, we understand the importance of having reliable thermal printing equipment and consumables that deliver sharp and clear prints. That’s why we pride ourselves on stocking only the highest quality products that guarantee reliable results. 

Our commitment to providing state-of-the-art printing materials guarantees that your SSCC labels will be reproduced with precision and accuracy every single time. Plus, with our comprehensive selection of products, you can count on Triton to supply all your thermal printing needs in one convenient place.

We provide thermal printers from trusted brands like Honeywell, Zebra and TSC. Our vast inventory includes various thermal printer models, such as direct thermal printers, thermal transfer printers, barcode label printers, desktop printers and industrial printers, so you’ll have no trouble finding the right solution for your needs. 

Our premium-quality thermal printing supplies include:

Browse and shop from our wide range of products and join the thousands of other happy customers who have enjoyed the quality and convenience the Triton Store offers. 

Incorrect Barcode Symbology

The incorrect use of barcode symbology is another major issue that can lead to SSCC label rejections. While other barcode symbologies like Code 128 and DataMatrix can be used for SSCC labels, the GS1-128 barcode (formerly UCC/EAN-128 barcode) is the only standard that should be used for this purpose.

Using other barcode symbologies can cause confusion and errors in data capture, as some barcode scanners cannot read 2D or other non-standard barcode types.

To create a GS1-128 barcode with SSCC data, you will need to implement barcode labelling software such as Seagull Scientific’s BarTender software. The BarTender is not only a labelling software but also a printer management tool that helps with the automation and streamlining of the entire labelling solutions. 

At Triton, we are proud to be authorised sellers of the most sophisticated label designing and printing software available. We carry all four versions – Starter Edition, Professional Edition, Automation Edition and Enterprise Edition – at the lowest prices possible.

Contact us via the live chat widget below, or fill out a form here to learn more.

Incorrect or Inadequate SSCC Data

The SSCC data is absolutely essential for a successful shipment; if any part of the data is inaccurate or incomplete, it runs the risk of getting rejected during transit.

Every SSCC label must contain a valid and unique Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) as well as an SSCC before it can be accepted by carriers or customs. Aside from that, each element within the label should also be validated against the rules and standards set by GS1.

It is recommended to lock down serialisation and barcode information to ensure the SSCC label is accurate and error-free. Doing so ensures that the barcodes cannot be duplicated, thus preventing shipments from being rejected.

Another approach to guarantee that SSCC labels have all the necessary information is to start using databasing labelling. This method involves storing all the necessary data in a central database, which can then be retrieved and used for generating labels. Databasing the labelling information reduces the possibility of missing data or labelling errors caused by manual data entry.

Mismatching Labels on the Logistic Unit

Logistic units that require more than one SSCC label to be affixed must not contain mismatching labels. Mismatching labels can lead to multiple rejections during transit as carriers and customs officials will be unable to determine which label is correct and won’t be able to verify the contents of the shipment.

 It is important to use an automated labelling system that keeps track of all the SSCC labels generated and assigned to the individual logistic unit to prevent mismatching labels. Moreover, manual inspection of the logistic unit and its labels should occur before shipping the unit.

How is an SSCC Label Actually Used?

The logistics operations surrounding SSCC labels can be divided into four sections, as indicated below.

First, the sender creates and prints a GS1 SSCC label with the required barcodes and then affixes it to the logistic unit.

Next, the sender sends a DESADV (dispatch advice message) through EDI (electronic data interchange) to the recipient of the pallet. This is accomplished through the use of an international standard known as EDIFACT, which is provided by GS1 to enable global interactions.

DESADV provides key information about the shipment such as the number of pallets and what products are on each one. DESADV also contains details from the original order message, ensuring that the recipient is well aware of what is being delivered.

Now, the logistic unit is shipped. With the help of an SSCC label, the unit can be tracked throughout its transit journey as it’s scanned at various points of shipping. The label also provides information regarding its contents to any other party who may need it on its journey.

Finally, the logistic unit reaches its destination and is received by the recipient. Upon scanning the SSCC label, the associated EDI DESADV message is automatically detected, giving an accurate description of the contents of the logistic unit.

How Do I Create an SSCC Label?

Generating SSCC labels can be done in two ways. One is to create it manually, and the other is to utilise label designing and printing software.

To manually generate an SSCC, these are the steps to follow. 

  1. Step-1 Mention the Application Identifier. The SSCC code must always begin with 00 to signal the barcode reader, or RF scanner that the value being interpreted is an SSCC code.
  2. Step-2 Mention the extension digit. It is a single numeric digit (0 to 9) assigned by you (the company that generates the SSCC) to make the digit combination longer and unique for each unit load.
  3. Step-3 Enter your GS1 Company Prefix, which can be 7 to 9 digits long.
  4. Step-4 Enter Serial Reference. It is a set of numbers created by you (the company that generates the SSCC) to provide an individual ID for each logistical item. It must sum up to 17 digits when combined with the GS1 Company Prefix.
  5. Step-5 Calculate the Check digit. Use the GS1 Check Digit Calculator to generate the SSCC code’s last numeric digit (0 to 9).

As you can see, the manual generation of the SSCC label requires lots of steps and can be quite confusing. This is why it’s best to use automated labelling systems and barcode designing software for generating and printing multiple SSCC labels. We highly recommend using BarTender software for creating SSCC barcodes and labels.

How to Read an SSCC Label?

Like other stock barcodes, the SSCC barcode contains multiple data fields that can be quickly and accurately read with a barcode reader or an RF scanner. Every SSCC label will have information such as product description, number of cartons, sender details and order information.

Triton provides a range of barcode scanners designed for optimum performance and convenience. Our selection of devices comes with modern features and is engineered to offer superior accuracy, dependability and user-friendliness.

We provide barcode scanners from industry-leading brands like Honeywell and Zebra. Our vast inventory of barcode scanner models is divided into various categories, such as. 

Wrapping Up

All in all, Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) labels are essential tools for any business involved in shipping products around the world. They help create transparency between all parties involved while also providing accurate tracking data and helping protect against fraud.

Additionally, SSCC codes adhere to global standards set by GS1, which helps ensure that products will be tracked accurately across international borders without any issues. Ultimately, investing in an effective system for generating reliable SSCC labels will help you save time and money. It will also protect your business from losses due to inaccurate shipping information or delayed deliveries caused by misplacement or mishandling during transit.

We hope this article helped you understand what SSCC labels and barcodes are and why these codes are important for your business operations.

Thank you for reading this complete guide on SSCC barcode labels!

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