GS1-128 logistics label (SSCC label)
Quick answer
The standardised pallet label carrying the SSCC and logistics data, mandatory for retailer deliveries.
Key takeaways
- Top zone - supplier and recipient information (text)
- Middle zone - product description, batch, quantity
- Bottom zone - the GS1-128 barcode with SSCC and Application Identifiers
What the GS1-128 label is
The GS1-128 logistics label (formerly EAN-128) is the standard label applied to a pallet/case, encoding in a barcode the SSCC (the pallet's unique identifier) plus logistics data: GTIN, batch, quantity, expiry.
Label structure
- Top zone - supplier and recipient information (text)
- Middle zone - product description, batch, quantity
- Bottom zone - the GS1-128 barcode with SSCC and Application Identifiers
Why it is mandatory
Modern retailers require the SSCC label on each pallet, matched to the ASN (DESADV) sent via EDI. At receipt, the retailer scans the SSCC and auto-registers the whole pallet. Without it → blocked receipt or penalties.
How CRMconnect helps
The CRMconnect WMS generates compliant GS1-128 labels at shipping, assigns unique SSCCs and matches them to the EDI DESADV, so retailer receiving is instant and chargeback-free.
Real-world example
An FMCG supplier was penalised for non-compliant SSCC labels at Carrefour. With automatic GS1-128 generation in CRMconnect, matched to the DESADV, receipts became scan-and-go and labelling penalties disappeared.
Last updated:
Frequently asked
Difference between SSCC and the GS1-128 label?+
The SSCC is the unique identifier of the logistics unit (pallet). The GS1-128 label is the physical carrier displaying the SSCC (plus other data) in a standardised scannable barcode.
Why do retailers link the label to the ASN?+
The ASN (DESADV) sent via EDI tells the retailer what each SSCC contains. At receipt, scanning the label instantly matches the pallet with its declared content - fast receiving with no blind counting.
What are Application Identifiers (AI)?+
Standard GS1 prefixes in the barcode indicating what the following data represents (e.g. (00) = SSCC, (02) = GTIN, (10) = batch, (17) = expiry). They allow structured label reading.
Where CRMconnect fits
Related terms
SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code)
Unique 18-digit code identifying an individual transport unit - pallet, case, container.
TechnologyGS1
The global organization managing trade identification standards: GTIN (EAN), GLN, SSCC, EANCOM.
LogisticsASN / DESADV (Advance Shipping Notice)
EDI shipping notice sent before goods physically arrive at the retailer - describes pallet, batch, quantity.
OperationsGoods receipt
The process of checking and recording goods entering the warehouse, matched against the purchase order and delivery note.