What Is SCAC Code in Trucking?
Also called: Standard Carrier Alpha Code, SCAC
A SCAC is a two to four letter code that identifies a carrier in shipping and billing records. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) issues it. Many shippers, brokers, platforms and government programs ask for it. It is not the same as an MC or USDOT number, and it is not required by law in every case. It is renewed every year.
Last reviewed September 23, 2026 · Facts checked October 16, 2026
Key Points
- A SCAC is a unique two to four letter code that identifies a motor carrier or transportation provider (NMFTA)
- NMFTA is the only issuer. You apply and renew at scaccode.com
- A SCAC is not required by law in every situation, but customers, platforms and government programs often require it
- NMFTA's pricing page shows $110 to apply online and $104 to renew online. Phone or mail costs more. Non-Class 8 carriers may pay a $5 ID verification fee
- A SCAC is issued and renewed every year. A lapsed SCAC costs the renewal fee for each year missed plus $10 to reinstate
- NMFTA says it can take 1 to 2 business days once the application is verified
- A SCAC is not an MC number or a USDOT number. Those come from FMCSA
What is a SCAC code?
A Standard Carrier Alpha Code, or SCAC, is a two to four letter code that identifies a motor carrier or other transportation provider. NMFTA says the code is built into contracts, load tenders, transportation management systems, customs filings and government programs. Think of it as a carrier's short name for freight paperwork and electronic data. A carrier named Smith Freight might be shown as a code of a few letters on a bill of lading or an electronic load tender.
Do you need a SCAC code?
Not always. NMFTA says a SCAC is not required by law in every situation, but it is often required by customers, partners, platforms or government programs as a condition of doing business. You may need one if you work with large shippers, brokers or third-party logistics companies, or if you haul for a government agency such as USPS. It is used for electronic data interchange, intermodal interchange, customs and government bills of lading. If a customer asks for a SCAC, ask why, then decide whether the work is worth the yearly fee.
How much does a SCAC cost, and how long does it take?
NMFTA's pricing page shows $110 to apply online and $104 to renew online. Applying or renewing by phone or mail costs more, at $127 and $116. Non-Class 8 carriers may pay an extra $5 for ID verification. A code that ends in U, used for containers, costs $138 to assign. Fees can change and are confirmed at checkout. NMFTA says processing usually takes 1 to 2 business days once your details are verified.
Do SCAC codes expire, and how do you renew one?
Yes. A SCAC is issued and renewed every year, and the fee applies each year. NMFTA says you renew through its official system at scaccode.com, and that a carrier with an existing SCAC completes ID verification at renewal. If a SCAC expires, you pay to reinstate it. The reinstatement fee is the renewal fee times the number of years expired, plus $10. A lapsed code can stop shippers and platforms from recognizing you, so renew on time.
How do you get or find a SCAC?
To get one, apply through NMFTA's official site at scaccode.com. You will give basic business details, details about how you operate and an authorized contact, and identity verification may be required. NMFTA is the only issuer, so avoid anyone who offers to sell you a code. To check another carrier's SCAC, ask the carrier. NMFTA also sells a lookup product called SCAC Verified, which lets you search by SCAC, MC number, USDOT number or company name.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a SCAC code?+
A SCAC is a two to four letter code that identifies a motor carrier in shipping and billing records. NMFTA issues it. It is used in contracts, load tenders, electronic data systems, customs filings and government programs.
Do I need a SCAC code?+
Not by law in every case. NMFTA says a SCAC is often required by customers, platforms or government programs. You may need one for large shippers, brokers, third-party logistics companies or USPS work. If a customer asks, ask why and whether the work is worth the yearly fee.
How much does a SCAC code cost?+
NMFTA's pricing page shows $110 to apply online and $104 to renew online. Phone or mail costs more, and non-Class 8 carriers may pay a $5 ID verification fee. Fees can change, so confirm the price at checkout.
How long does it take to get a SCAC code?+
NMFTA says processing usually takes 1 to 2 business days once your application is verified. It can take longer if the application has errors.
Do SCAC codes expire?+
Yes. A SCAC is issued and renewed every year. If it lapses, the reinstatement fee is the renewal fee for each year missed, plus $10. Renew through scaccode.com.
Is a SCAC the same as an MC number?+
No. An MC number is an FMCSA operating authority number. A SCAC is a code from NMFTA that identifies a carrier in freight paperwork and data. A carrier can have both, and many shippers ask for both.
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This is industry terminology and typical practice. It is not legal or tax advice. Rates, fees, and rules mentioned are general ranges. Confirm the details on your rate confirmation, carrier agreement, or a current official source.