Tracking and tracing of logistic units in the supply chain is a major application of the GS1 system. For this purpose, a standard GS1 Identification number known as the Serial Shipping Container Code - SSCC - identifies logistic units.

The SSCC provides an unambiguous identification for logistic units and is the only mandatory field on the GS1 Logistics Label. The SSCC can be used by all parties in the supply chain as a reference number to the relevant information held in computer files.