What does a Transportation Control Number (TCN) identify?

A Transportation Control Number (TCN) is a unique identifier assigned to shipments within the transportation system. It plays a crucial role in tracking and managing the movement of goods from the point of origin to the destination. Each TCN is specific to an entire shipment, encompassing various details about the cargo, including the sender, recipient, and the logistics involved in transit.

By identifying an entire shipment, the TCN ensures that all relevant information regarding the movement of the goods is organized under a singular reference number. This facilitates communication and coordination among various agencies, helps streamline the shipping process, and enhances accountability in logistics operations.

Understanding the implications of the TCN is vital for efficient supply chain management and for ensuring that shipments are accurately traced and delivered in a timely manner. It is distinct from identifying individual items, specific delivery routes, or shipping costs, which are irrelevant to the primary function of the TCN in tracking whole shipments.