An SSCC — Serial Shipping Container Code — is an 18-digit GS1 code that uniquely identifies a logistics unit, almost always a pallet. It's the link between the physical pallet and the EDI ASN sent to retailers like Coles and Woolworths.
The longer version.
Every pallet shipped to a major AU retailer needs an SSCC barcode (in GS1-128 symbology) on two adjacent sides. The SSCC is generated by the supplier (or their 3PL) using their GS1 company prefix, with a serial reference unique to the pallet. The SSCC is the spine of retail traceability — when the pallet arrives, the DC scans the SSCC, the EDI 856 ASN tells them what's on it, and the receipt is matched in seconds.
Key facts.
Why it matters.
- SSCCs are non-negotiable for major AU retail trading
- An SSCC must match the EDI 856 ASN — discrepancy = chargeback
- Without GS1 company prefix registration, you can't generate compliant SSCCs
Common pitfalls.
- Trying to ship to Coles without GS1 registration
- 3PL WMS that doesn't auto-generate SSCCs (manual = error-prone)
- Re-using SSCCs (they're meant to be serial — every pallet unique)
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