
The Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) is a system that assigns a unique 9-digit identifier to a single business entity. It was introduced in 1963 to support Dun & Bradstreet's (D&B) credit reporting practice. DUNS is now recognised worldwide, with users including Google, Apple, the European Commission, and the United Nations. DUNS numbers are free and can be obtained in 24-48 hours, although the wait time can vary depending on the region. Businesses can check if they already have a DUNS number using the D&B D-U-N-S Number Lookup tool.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Data Universal Numbering System |
| Abbreviation | DUNS or D-U-N-S |
| Description | A proprietary system that assigns a unique 9-digit numeric identifier to a single business entity |
| Developed and Managed by | Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) |
| Year Introduced | 1963 |
| Purpose | To support Dun & Bradstreet's credit reporting practice |
| Charge for Number | None |
| Time to Create Number | 24 to 48 hours |
| Time for Online Number | 30 business days; immediate for UK businesses that provide their company registration number |
| Time for Number with "Small Business Starter" Purchase | 5 business days or less |
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What You'll Learn

How to check if your organisation already has a DUNS number
If you are unsure whether your organisation has a DUNS number, you can use the D&B D-U-N-S Number Lookup tool to find out. Alternatively, you can ask your senior management or locate the number on your SAM.gov account. If your organisation is registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), providing these details when registering with Dun & Bradstreet will ensure a faster response to your application.
DUNS numbers are unique nine-digit numbers that identify organisations when registering for sites such as SAM.gov and FedConnect. They remain with the business for perpetuity and are never reused or repurposed, even if the business closes.
If your organisation does not have a DUNS number, you can request one for free at http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform.
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How to register for a DUNS number
A D-U-N-S (Data Universal Numbering System) number is a globally recognised nine-digit identification number assigned to businesses. If you are based in Australia, you can check if your organisation already has a D-U-N-S number using the D&B D-U-N-S Number Lookup tool. If your organisation has an Australian ABN, it may already have been assigned a D-U-N-S number from the USA.
If your organisation does not have a D-U-N-S number, you will need to register with Dun & Bradstreet directly. You can do this by visiting the D&B website at www.dnb.com. If the provided link doesn’t work, try searching for 'D&B' with the name of your country in a web search engine.
If your business is registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), be sure to provide your organisation's ASIC details upon registering with Dun & Bradstreet. This will ensure a faster turnaround on your application.
It is also advised that you follow the Apple Developer Program prompts to secure a more timely response, closer to five business days.
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The history of the DUNS system
The Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) is a unique nine-digit identifier for businesses. It was created by Dun & Bradstreet in 1963 as part of its business credit reporting system.
Dun & Bradstreet was formed in 1933 when R.G. Dun & Company merged with its competitor, John M. Bradstreet. Over the following decades, the company expanded dramatically, acquiring several other companies, including Moody's, a credit reporting agency, in 1962. The following year, Dun & Bradstreet created the DUNS system to identify businesses.
The DUNS number is used as the starting point for any company's Live Business Identity, which is a comprehensive and continually updated view of any company in the Data Cloud. The Live Business Identity includes firmographic data (such as company name, address, and phone number), corporate family relationships, and scores and ratings that assess different financial health indicators.
Potential partners and lenders can request a business credit report about a company using its DUNS number. The DUNS number also enables the identification of relationships between corporate entities, which is a key element of commercial risk assessment practices.
From 2003 to 2022, the United States government required that all organisations doing business with the federal government use a DUNS number as an identifier.
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How DUNS numbers are generated
The Data Universal Numbering System, or DUNS, is a system developed and managed by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) that assigns a unique nine-digit numeric identifier to a single business entity. It was introduced in 1963 to support D&B's credit reporting practice.
The DUNS number is random, and the digits have no apparent significance. Until 2006, the DUNS number contained a mod-10 check digit to support error detection. Removing the check digit increased the inventory of available DUNS numbers by 800 million.
The D‑U‑N‑S Number is used globally to identify and access information on businesses. It is used as the starting point for any company's Live Business Identity, the most comprehensive and continually updated view of any company in the Data Cloud. A DUNS number is often referenced by lenders and potential business partners to help predict the reliability and/or financial stability of the company in question.
Any business can apply for a DUNS number free of charge. It can take up to 30 business days to receive a DUNS number, although quicker processing is available for a fee.
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Benefits of having a DUNS number
The D-U-N-S (Data Universal Numbering System) is a globally recognised system that assigns a unique 9-digit identification number to businesses. There are several benefits to having a D-U-N-S number for your business. Firstly, it can help to streamline the application process for certain programs or services. For example, providing your D-U-N-S number when applying for monthly invoicing or during the advertiser verification process may enable faster assessment of your applications.
Secondly, having a D-U-N-S number can enhance your business's credibility and trustworthiness. As it is a globally recognised system, possessing a D-U-N-S number indicates that your business has undergone a standardised evaluation and validation process. This can inspire confidence in potential partners, clients, and investors, both domestically and internationally.
Additionally, a D-U-N-S number can facilitate business networking and collaboration. When registering with Dun & Bradstreet, your business becomes part of a global network, making it easier for potential partners and suppliers to find and connect with you. The D-U-N-S number serves as a universal identifier, enabling efficient communication and information exchange between businesses.
Obtaining a D-U-N-S number can also simplify vendor and supplier management. Many large organisations and government agencies require a D-U-N-S number for supplier registration and procurement processes. By having a D-U-N-S number, your business can more easily navigate these processes and become eligible for a wider range of business opportunities.
Lastly, a D-U-N-S number can aid in business credit reporting and financial management. Dun & Bradstreet offers credit reporting services and financial tools that utilise the D-U-N-S number to track and assess business performance. This can help your business establish a credit history, secure better loan rates, and make more informed financial decisions.
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Frequently asked questions
DUNS stands for Data Universal Numbering System. It's a globally recognised system that assigns a unique 9-digit identification number to businesses.
You can find out if your organisation already has a DUNS number using the D&B D-U-N-S Number Lookup tool. If not, you can register with Dun & Bradstreet directly. If your business is registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), be sure to provide these details when registering with Dun & Bradstreet for a faster application process.
There is no charge to get a DUNS number.



















