Purpose
Logistics labels identify cartons and pallets so they can be scanned, tracked, and dispatched. This guide covers building GS1 logistics labels in Label Studio Creator: the SSCC serial shipping container code, GS1-128 with application identifiers, the GS1 logistic label layout, and batch printing of unique units.
Get the SSCC and GS1-128 right and your labels move cleanly through any compliant supply chain.
1. The SSCC explained
The SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code) uniquely identifies one logistic unit — a carton or a pallet. It is 18 digits under application identifier (00):
- Extension digit (1) — chosen by you to expand capacity.
- GS1 company prefix + serial reference (16) — your prefix plus a unique serial.
- Check digit (1) — computed (mod-10).
2. GS1-128 & application identifiers
| AI | Meaning |
|---|---|
| (00) | SSCC — the logistic unit identifier. |
| (01) / (02) | GTIN of the trade item / of items contained. |
| (37) | Count of trade items in the logistic unit. |
| (10) | Batch / lot number. |
| (15) / (17) | Best-before / expiry date (YYMMDD). |
| (400–420) | Order, ship-to, and reference numbers as needed. |
3. Build the label layout
Use the GS1 logistic layout
Text zone on top (from/to, content), then GTIN/lot/date, then the SSCC bar at the bottom.
Two GS1-128 bars
Typically one for item data (02/37/10/15) and one dedicated to the SSCC (00).
Human-readable text
Print AIs in parentheses above/below each bar, matching the encoded values exactly.
Size for scanning
Use a robust X-dimension and full quiet zones — these get scanned by fixed and handheld readers.
4. Carton vs pallet
Both use an SSCC, but they differ in aggregation:
- Carton: one SSCC per box; may also carry item GTIN + lot.
- Pallet: a new SSCC for the pallet, aggregating the cartons' SSCCs (SSCC hierarchy) for despatch advice / ASN.
- Place labels on the correct faces (often two adjacent sides of a pallet).
- Keep the SSCC label flat and unobstructed by strapping or wrap seams.
5. Batch print unique units
Source serials
Feed a controlled SSCC sequence (or generate with your prefix) via the data source.
One label per unit
Each carton/pallet gets its own SSCC; batch print produces the whole run.
Test-scan first
Print and scan a sample carton and pallet label before the full batch.
Record what shipped
Keep the SSCC list for the ASN / despatch advice and reprints.
6. Common problems and fixes
| Symptom | Likely cause & fix |
|---|---|
| SSCC rejected | Wrong check digit or length. Regenerate via the assistant; confirm 18 digits. |
| Scanner reads only part | Missing FNC1 between variable AIs. Rebuild the GS1-128 with the assistant. |
| Duplicate SSCC | Manual/looped serials. Use a controlled, non-repeating source. |
| Bars won't scan on the dock | X-dimension/quiet zone too small. Increase size; keep margins clear. |
| Pallet vs carton mixed up | Same SSCC reused. Assign a distinct SSCC per logistic level. |