In order to meet the demands of a changing market, suppliers need to be able to stay on top of technology changes. One such change is the advent of the Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC), a labelling protocol that facilitates more efficient tracking of goods throughout the shipping process.
What is the SSCC?
SSCC is an 18-digit code (typically a GS1-128 barcode) that is based on a universal language and is unique for each unit being shipped. The code is then captured in a label attached to the outside of each identifiable transport item (e.g. pallet, case, individual good, etc.).
This barcoded label acts like a digitally traceable license plate, giving everyone in the supply chain a clear view of what the goods are, their current location, and where they've been. The label itself is broken up into “segments” or “zones”, each of which correspond to different informational components (e.g. freight information and sender/delivery details) that relate to the item being shipped.
Logistics providers and supply chain operators can use this information to quickly identify the contents of the shipping unit and track its movements across the entire delivery route.
SSCC implications for suppliers
Historically, retailers have had to rely on a range of methods to track goods. Often, this meant that they had to recontextualise and align the various codes / IDs used by proprietary systems, or (worse) manually enter the labelling data from paper manifests.
Because many Australasian retailers (e.g. Foodstuffs) no longer want to spend valuable time on labelling alignment; they have implemented specific labelling requirements that suppliers will need to follow in order to be SSCC compliant. For suppliers, it’s crucial that they are not caught off-guard by this time-sensitive, mandatory requirement.
Adherence to SSCC best practice will not only ensure that suppliers able to keep their retail customers happy, but it has the added flow-on effect of simplifying internal warehouse and logistics processes.
Using SSCC numbers with Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) communications such as Advanced Shipping Notices (ASNs) can ensure seamless processes and manage expectations across business enterprises.
Achieving simplicity through integration
Integration can often be a daunting component for suppliers looking to implement SSCC labels. This is because things like label design and print equipment can often vary between companies and it can be hard for suppliers to integrate with the full spread of required retailer parameters. Some of the specific SSCC integration challenges that suppliers need to manage, include:
- Unique retailer data identifiers: Every individual shipping unit must be labelled and associated with a valid, unique label.
- Retailer communication protocols: Diversification of communication methods and data transmission guidelines (e.g. EDI, API) require suppliers to adapt their systems to meet retailer needs.
- Label design specifications: Design-specific requirements need to be implemented across internal supplier systems.
- Integration with trading partners: Suppliers need to be able to communicate labelling information with additional trading partners.
The Crossfire advantage
Crossfire helps suppliers integrate directly with their WMS to ensure that any data from the warehouse is accurately relayed via EDI without human intervention. Crossfire can directly create SSCC labels from the relevant operational system and allows suppliers to define the packed goods by simply dragging and dropping within the system.
Crossfire prioritises rapid implementation, minimising disruptions and maximising efficiency. With Crossfire you’re getting more than SSCC labeling integration, you’re getting scalable solutions that grow with your business and a strategic ally deeply versed in the intricacies of retailer / supplier requirements across the entire supply chain.
Ready to learn more? Contact Crossfire today, and let's talk about how we can help you make the switch to SSCC labelling and unlock the full potential of your supply chain.
