Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS)

What is Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS)?

A DUNS (Data Universal Numbering System) is a unique form of a numbering system that indicates a 9-digit series of numbers for identifying a business. D&B –Dun & Bradsheet is known to create the number. It is responsible for generating a business profile in the database while providing information like the name, address, phone number, line of business, number of workers, and so more –along with other vital corporate information.

The DUNS number turns out to be one of the most widely accepted forms of methodology for identifying companies in the United States of America. The given number system is responsible for designating and maintaining updated information on over 300 million businesses across the globe –lately in 2019.

Once the given numeral has been issued, the number system or identification number tends to be permanent –irrespective of the changes in domicile or corporate ownership. In case a particular company would Fail to exist, then the DUNS number never gets re-issued.

How does the DUNS Number Work?

The DUNS (Data Universal Numbering System) was created by the D&B (Dun & Bradsheet) in 1983. It helps in identifying businesses to be a part of the credit reporting system by the D&B business. During October 1994, DUNS became the standard means of business identifier for Electronic Commerce for the federal government.

The companies that are listed in DUNS are known to include non-profit organizations, small business owners, major corporations, and multiple partnerships. It is also known to include the United States Government along with the European Commission and the UN (United Nations).

The DUNS number helps in providing information linked to some company like the respective official business title, financial data, name, payment history, trade name, executive names, economic status, and so more. At the same time, the company is also known to allow the company to search for information related to other companies while helping businesses come across potential partners, vendors, and eventually customers. The federal government is known to make use of the DUNS number for tracking federal money disbursements.

It is voluntary for businesses to register for the DUNS number. However, it is important to have a proper identifier when you wish to bid on the state, government, or local contracts and apply for credits with a lender or federal grants. It is also known to allow for confirming the overall credibility of the given business while helping with conducting business with foreign countries or retailers. Some of the countries include the EU (European Union) and Australia.

The DUNS number is only helpful in identifying a business that has been registered with the Dun & Bradsheet (D&B) database. The listing of the given companies with other credit bureau –like the Experian, is not going to be found in the D&B database. This is because the Credit Bureaus are known to maintain unique databases while not sharing data with one another.