# Alpha Code

*Last updated: 2026-06-16*

> Alpha codes appear in freight operations wherever carriers, forwarders, or customs authorities need to identify a transport company unambiguously in documents and data exchanges.

Alpha codes appear in freight operations wherever carriers, forwarders, or customs authorities need to identify a transport company unambiguously in documents and data exchanges. The most widely used standard is the Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) – a four-character alphanumeric identifier administered in the United States by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) to designate trucking companies, ocean carriers, and airlines. It features in bills of lading, waybills, and EDI messages, enabling machine-readable carrier identification and error-free routing. SCAC is distinct from IATA airline or airport codes and from UN/LOCODEs, which identify locations rather than carriers.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Carrier_Alpha_Code](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Carrier_Alpha_Code)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Alpha Code |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 97 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-16 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Carrier_Alpha_Code |

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