A Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number is a unique, nine-digit identifier that pinpoint your business within a global database. Created by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), the DUNS number generates a comprehensive business profile that includes your company’s name, phone number, address, workforce size, and operational details.
The DUNS number, which is the most widely recognized method for identifying companies in the United States, keeps up-to-date information on millions of global businesses.
Key Takeaways
- Unique Identification: A DUNS number is a unique, nine-digit identifier assigned to a single business entity.
- Historical Roots: DUNS was created in 1963 by Dun & Bradstreet as a component of their business credit reporting system.
- Cost-free for U.S. Firms: Obtaining a DUNS number is free for U.S.-based businesses.
- Essential for Various Operations: While obtaining a DUNS number is voluntary, it is mandatory for applying for government contracts and often required for international business dealings.
The Mechanism Behind a DUNS Number
Dun & Bradstreet’s data universal numbering system (DUNS) was created in 1963 to uniquely identify businesses for business credit reporting purposes. By 1994, DUNS had become the standard identifier for federal government electronic commerce transactions.
The database encompasses companies of various scales, including major corporations, small businesses, nonprofits, and partnerships. Its user base includes the U.S. government, the United Nations, and major retailers like Target.
Functionality of DUNS Number
The DUNS number provides extensive details about a company, including official business titles, financial data, transaction names, payment history, economic status, and executive information. Companies can use this number to search information about other businesses, thereby finding potential customers, partners, or suppliers.
Applying for a DUNS Number
The application for a DUNS number can be executed via the DUNS website. U.S.-based businesses can obtain a DUNS number at no cost. The application must be completed by an authorized company representative, with the process taking up to 30 days. However, if the application is for a federal government contract, the number can be acquired within 24 hours.
Necessary information includes the company’s legal name, headquarters address, physical and mailing address, phone number, contact name and title, and employee count at the specific location. A DUNS number is particular to each physical location, meaning separate numbers are needed for each branch or division of a company. It is up to the business to manage and validate the accuracy of their DUNS numbers.
You can use the DUNS Number Lookup tool to check if a business has a DUNS number. This tool grants access to the company’s D&B business credit score and allows businesses to review and update their D&B credit report.
Special Considerations
The DUNS number identifies companies listed with Dun & Bradstreet. Businesses listed with other credit bureaus like Experian will not appear in the D&B database due to the independence of these agencies.
Knowing the significance of a DUNS number can help businesses build credibility, facilitate smoother transactions, and create new opportunities for growth.
Related Terms: EIN, Business Credit Score, SAM Registration, Dun & Bradstreet Number.
References
- Dun & Bradstreet. “Dun & Bradstreet D‑U‑N‑S Number”.
- Dun & Bradstreet. “The Dun & Bradstreet D-U-N-S Number: The Universal Standard for Business Identification”, Pages 1-2.
- Congressional Research Service. “Unique Identification Codes for Federal Contractors: DUNS Numbers and CAGE Codes”, Page 2.
- North American Industry Classification System. “NAICS Profile Page-Target Stores Inc”.
- Dun & Bradstreet. “D-U-N-S Number Guide”, Page 1.
