How Do You Get a SCAC Code for Your Business?

If you’re working as a trucker or logistics broker, you already know the job entails more than simply operating freight trucks. Mandated information counts, too, including details like the Standard Carrier Alpha Code. 

How do you get a SCAC code? And why is it necessary? 

At FMCA Filings, we specialize in SCAC code registrations and all other important official filings that can legally keep you on the road. Below, we explain how to get this code.

What Is a SCAC Code?

If you’re in transportation and logistics companies, your SCAC code will be a kind of freight identification designation. Usually, it has up to four digits. The code serves multiple purposes within the transportation sector's standardized computer system, such as:

• Swiftly register cargo into electronic systems
• Do straightforward document transfers between motor carriers and customers
• Accurately track truck drivers
• Easily track shipments

Though all SCAC codes are unique, some have specific purposes. Some examples would be your codes ending with "U," "Z," or "X." These letters specifically refer to freight containers, trailers for intermodal services, and private railroad cars, respectively.

Why Motor Carriers Need This Transportation Code 

Federal agencies will use SCAC codes to oversee motor carriers and brokers in the logistics and transportation industries. The codes provide important information, so they're mandatory for all transportation companies conducting legal business within the United States. 

Businesses with international operations or dealings with government agencies also need SCAC codes. Take the Federal Drug Administration as an example. The FDA has SCAC codes for monitoring all shipments. They also use them to carry out in-depth inspections to prevent public health emergencies. 

How To Get a SCAC Code

So, how do you get a SCAC code? First, you must have a commercial driver's license, but that only applies if you need the code for trucking. Otherwise, an application to the National Motor Freight Traffic Association and fee payment does the job. 

Here are some prerequisites to obtain a NMFTA SCAC code:

• LLC, corporation, partnership, or legally recognized enterprise
• Valid liability insurance
• U.S Department of Transportation number
• Bond

FMCA Filings fully understands how overwhelming it can feel to meet these requirements and submit a timely SCAC code application. That's why we streamline the process, deftly handling SCAC code applications for businesses within the trucking industry. If you need some help, contact FMCA Filings’ knowledgeable representatives to ensure your information is accurate and electronically submitted to minimize downtime for your business.

How Long It Takes To Get SCAC Codes

Trucking businesses and other motor carriers could wait as little as 24 hours to get their SCAC codes after NMFTA processes the application. Typically, these codes arrive by email. If FMCA Filings submits your application before 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on a weekday, you may even get your SCAC code within two hours (on the same day).

FMCA Filings takes meticulous care to submit timely, error-free SCAC applications. Still, while these delays may be blamed on human error with the application, they’re common with high volumes for SCAC code requests, too. With our extensive experience in filing, it’s helpful to anticipate delays and unforeseen circumstances by leaving enough time to submit things.

Are SCAC Codes Necessary for Everybody Within Logistics?

How do you get a SCAC code? You can apply through FMCA Filings. You might also wonder who needs one, and we’d advise all motor carriers, brokers, shippers, and third-party logistics companies to apply for a code.

These SCAC codes track and monitor carriers in computerized databases, so the mandatory requirement extends beyond trucking to all transportation and logistics across land, rail, sea, and air hauling. Without the code, agencies will have a tough time regulating the movement of domestic and international shipments, with affected cargo including, but not limited to:

• Equipment
• Decor
• Construction material
• Livestock
• Correspondence
• Chemicals and medicines
• Textiles

Do Freight Brokers Also Need a SCAC Code?

Freight brokers aren't exempt from needing SCAC codes to conduct business legally. The computer systems monitor cargo, track freight movements, and generate and transfer documents between businesses and their customers. It’s all standardized in a system called EDI, which gives freight brokers valuable data about cargo type, freight transports, and more. 

A standard for the whole industry essentially represents a universal language that both brokers and motor carriers can understand. If you don’t want excessive paperwork, phone calls, or faxes, everyone needs SCAC codes.

Count on FMCA Filings for All of Your Motor Carrier Registration Needs

How do you get a SCAC code? FMCA Filings’ experience securing SCAC codes for carriers and brokers ensures applications through NMFTA go in flawlessly and promptly. You don’t have to worry about noncompliance with state or federal trucking regulations because we're here to help.

Contact us online or use the FMCA Filing live chat feature for a swift response!