What is the difference between the SCAC and IATA?

      The SCAC is the carrier identification for vessel, rail, and truck shipments. It is a unique two-to-four-letter code. These codes are issued and maintained by the National Motor Freight Association (NMFTA) in the mid 1960's to facilitate computerization in the transportation industry. In contrast, the IATA is responsible for issuing carrier identification codes for air shipments. It involves airport code, airline code, city code.

Why is the carrier code important?

      It is essential that you accurately report the SCAC or IATA code so that Customs knows exactly which carrier is transporting the goods and has the opportunity to inspect the goods prior to export. Failure to provide accurate information can lead to shipment delays and penalties up to $10,000 per violation. 

      For example, when you arrange your shipment by sea(Sea Cargo Tracking System from SEABAY), you will get a Seaway Bill of Lading(abbreviation SWB or Sea B/L). When you track your sea shipment cargo, you will need the B/L number. The intial four letters are SCAC Code, which stands for the sea company, such as COSCO.

      When you arrange your shipment by air(Air Cargo Tracking System from SEABAY), you have to check from which airport to which airport. When you ask for the air freight from the shipping forwarder, they must tell you which airline company will carry your cargo. Here needs the IATA airport code and airline code. You can also track your air cargo by Air B/L number. The initial three letters stand for the airline company, such as CA.

Is this required for all shipments?

      No. The carrier identification is not required for the following modes of transportation: mail, passenger hand carried, and fixed transport (pipeline).