DUNS (Number Data Universal Numbering System)

What is DUNS (Number Data Universal Numbering System)?

The Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number was a unique nine-digit identifier assigned by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) to businesses. It was a critical component of the federal government's contractor identification and tracking system. While now obsolete, understanding its role in past contracting processes is still relevant.

Definition

The DUNS number served as a persistent identifier for businesses engaging in transactions with the U.S. federal government. Before April 2022, a DUNS number was mandatory for registering in the System for Award Management (SAM), which is required for any entity seeking federal contracts, grants, or other financial assistance. Federal agencies used the DUNS number to track contractors' performance, payment history, and other relevant data. Although the U.S. government no longer uses the DUNS number, it is vital to understand its legacy because older contract documentation will refer to it.

The transition away from the DUNS number to the Unique Entity ID (UEI) aimed to simplify the registration process for businesses and reduce reliance on a proprietary numbering system. However, understanding the historical context and how the DUNS number was previously utilized remains beneficial for interpreting past contracts and understanding the evolution of federal procurement systems.

Key Points

• Historical Significance: Understanding the DUNS number is essential for interpreting older government contracting documents and records.
• SAM Registration Requirement (Past): Before April 2022, a valid DUNS number was mandatory for registering in SAM.gov.
• Unique Identification: Each physical location of a business could have its own unique DUNS number.
• Transition to UEI: The DUNS number has been replaced by the Unique Entity ID (UEI) generated in SAM.gov.

Practical Examples

1. Reviewing Old Contracts: When reviewing contracts awarded before April 2022, the contractor's DUNS number will likely be referenced for identification.
2. Analyzing Past Performance Data: Previously, federal agencies used the DUNS number to track a contractor's performance across various projects. Knowing the DUNS number can help locate historical performance records.
3. Understanding Subcontracting Relationships: Subcontractors doing business with a prime contractor on a federal project also needed a DUNS number prior to the transition to the UEI. This allowed for tracking the flow of federal funds.