Code Lists

Code Lists are list of codes to be used in documents in order to constrain input and avoid errors. When filling in forms, instead of keying in free text, a code list will constrain the accepted entry. This is an essential part of document alignment and data harmonisation process for business or government messages. Many of the standard code lists in use today were developed for EDIFACT messages and are published by UN/CEFACT and ISO.

Problem

Many documents used in international trade, such as the invoice or the customs declaration, require information on locations, currency, dates, measurements and other elements. This information is however often spelled differently in many countries and languages. Hence, the information is ambiguous and may be misunderstood, or can not be processed by electronic systems.

Solution

In order to represent this information in an unambiguous ways, this information can be coded. The code than becomes a unique and unambiguous way of representing information, in paper format as well as electronic exchange.
The document or forms designer should require the use of codes that are used internationally, such as according to UNECE Recommendations listed below, including the UN/LOCODE, Incoterms, etc.

Example

Below is a model FIATA Forwarding instruction form. It indicates the locations on the document where code lists are used.

Benefits

Code Lists ensure errors are minimized, such as misspellings, misunderstandings and ambiguity. Code lists are published as part of a standards and recommendations process and are essential to the interoperability of messages.

The code lists below are part of UNECE and UNCEFACT Recommendations;