Why NMFTA is Changing Its Relationship with SCAC Resellers—to Strengthen Security and Prevent Freight Fraud

Debra Edwards - November 20, 2025

For decades, the Standard Carrier Alpha Code® (SCAC®) has served as the backbone of freight identification—used by carriers, shippers, brokers, and government agencies to keep supply chains moving securely and efficiently.  

As the official administrator of SCAC, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™ has always held one clear responsibility: to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and trustworthiness of every code issued. 

In that spirit, effective February 26, 2026, NMFTA will implement a verification process for SCAC applications and renewals for non-Class 8 carriers and become the sole issuer of all SCACs for non-Class 8 carriers.

SCACs for Non-class 8 carriers will be issued and renewed exclusively through NMFTA’s official SCAC application system—scaccode.com. No changes are being made to how class 8 carriers use resellers to apply for and renew their SCACs at this time. 

Why This Change Is Happening 

Over time, a number of third-party websites began offering SCAC registration or renewal services. While many of these services were created to simplify paperwork, they also introduced confusion—and in some cases, risk. Through the newly modernized SCACcode.com platform, carriers can now apply for and renew SCAC directly with NMFTA—eliminating the need for third-party assistance and ensuring accuracy, transparency, and security. 

Carriers have reported: 

  • Overpaying due to unauthorized service markups; 
  • Accidentally submitting information through misleading or look-alike websites; and 
  • Delays or data errors caused by incomplete or inaccurate submissions. 

By centralizing SCAC issuance under NMFTA, the association is eliminating potential points of confusion, reducing the risk of fraud, and ensuring every SCAC is issued accurately and securely. 

Protecting the Industry’s Trust Signal 

In an era where freight fraud and identity-based schemes are on the rise, trust is no longer optional—it’s essential. SCAC has always been the industry’s universal identifier, but maintaining that trust means keeping a single, authoritative source of truth. 

By bringing SCAC issuance fully under NMFTA’s oversight, we’re: 

  • Improving transparency so every carrier knows exactly where to apply or renew. 
  • Safeguarding carrier data by ensuring all applications are handled securely within NMFTA’s systems. 
  • Strengthening identity integrity across the supply chain, reducing opportunities for impersonation or misuse. 

This decision reflects NMFTA’s continued commitment to being a good steward of the freight industry’s most trusted identifiers—and to leading initiatives that make the system more secure for everyone who depends on it. 

What Carriers Need to Know 

This change will not disrupt your current operations or SCAC validity. 

  • Your existing SCAC remains valid until its renewal date. 
  • For non-class 8, all renewals and new applications will now be processed only through NMFTA’s official SCAC application system. 

NMFTA’s client services team is ready to assist with any questions about renewals, timelines, or the transition away from resellers. 

A Step Toward a More Secure Future 

This change is part of NMFTA’s broader mission to strengthen trust and security in freight operations. Ending third-party SCAC reseller services helps ensure every code represents a verified, traceable entity—protecting carriers, shippers, third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and brokers alike from fraud and impersonation. 

While this update may seem small, it marks a significant step forward in building a more transparent, secure, and resilient supply chain. 

NMFTA’s Commitment to Stewardship 

As stewards of the SCAC system, NMFTA’s goal has always been to make it simpler, safer, and stronger for the entire industry. By taking ownership of the full issuance process, NMFTA is ensuring that the code that keeps freight moving continues to stand for what it always has—trust, reliability, and authenticity

Learn More 

For more information about this change, visit info.nmfta.org/scac-update for FAQs, timelines, and step-by-step renewal instructions. 

SCAC® is a registered mark of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association. 

Debra Edwards
Debra Edwards

NMFTA's Senior Manager of Client Services, Debra Edwards, oversees the association's widely-used products such as Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC®) and its related SCAC Data products such as: SCAC Online, SCAC Web Service, SCAC Daily Distribution Service and Quarterly Distribution Service.