SCAC code (Standard Carrier Alpha Code) is a standardized identification code used to represent transportation companies. These short codes—usually 2 to 4 letters—help uniquely identify carriers across the transportation industry and are widely used in digital logistics systems.

SCAC codes were developed to make tracking, monitoring, and regulating transportation services more efficient, especially in systems that rely on computerized data exchange. Today, SCAC codes play a critical role in freight movement, compliance, and operational transparency across the United States.

What Is a SCAC Code?

The Standard Carrier Alpha Code is a unique identifier assigned to transportation companies operating in motor, rail, and water transport. Each SCAC code represents a specific carrier, allowing government agencies, logistics providers, and businesses to quickly identify who is responsible for a shipment.

A SCAC code lookup provides access to a directory of these codes, showing which carrier each code belongs to. This system improves accuracy and efficiency when handling large volumes of shipping data.

Why SCAC Codes Are Important

SCAC codes are essential for maintaining oversight and operational control in the transportation industry. They are used to:

• Monitor motor, rail, and water transport services.
  

• Support border control and customs clearance.
• environmental and safety regulations.
• Enable automated processing in logistics and freight systems.

Because SCAC codes are standardized, they reduce errors in documentation and allow different systems to communicate seamlessly.

SCAC Codes and Government Compliance

SCAC codes are especially important for industries regulated by U.S. government agencies. They are commonly used in processes related to:

• Food and Drug Administration (FDA) import monitoring

• Customs and Border Protection

• Chemical, retail, and automotive shipments

• International trade involving U.S.-bound goods

Many international businesses are required to use SCAC codes when transporting goods into or within the United States, making SCAC code lookup tools a vital resource.

Who Needs SCAC Codes?

All transportation companies operating within the United States are subject to monitoring and regulatory oversight. SCAC codes help ensure that carriers comply with established transportation standards.

That said, not all freight containers in North America require a SCAC code, depending on the transport mode and regulatory requirements. Still, for most professional carriers and logistics operations, SCAC codes remain a key identifier.

Where SCAC Code Data Comes From

Official SCAC code directories are maintained and distributed through authorized industry sources. These directories can be accessed online and are updated regularly to reflect changes in carrier status, corrections, and new registrations.

SCAC code data may be distributed via:

• Web-based lookup services

• Email request

• FTP delivery

• ASCII or UTF-8 encoded files

Regular updates ensure businesses are always working with the most accurate carrier information.

Directory and Updates

The Directory of Standard Carrier Alpha Codes is maintained in coordination with the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system. The directory is updated quarterly, with a full annual release, ensuring current and reliable data.

Using an online SCAC code lookup tool is the fastest way to access the latest directory information without managing raw data files manually.

SCAC Code Lookup on Scaccodelookup.com

We provide an easy-to-use code lookup service designed for fast searching and detailed carrier information. Our database includes expanded data fields and regularly maintained records to support logistics professionals, brokers, and researchers.

Latest Data Update

Update for 2025–2026 (November 5, 2025):

• Corrected the error and changed the information

• Added 671 new rows

   

• Fixed broken or incomplete records

• Updated and validated data for 2025–2026 coverage

Our goal is to provide accurate, current, and reliable code information.

How to Use

You can search for codes in two main ways:

• SCAC code lookup by code – Enter code to find the carrier

• SCAC code lookup by company name – Search by carrier name to find associated codes

Both methods help you quickly identify transportation companies and verify carrier details.