NSN (National Stock Number)

What is NSN (National Stock Number)?

The National Stock Number (NSN) is a critical identifier in government contracting, serving as a universal language for defining and tracking items within the federal supply system. It simplifies logistics and procurement, ensuring the right supplies reach the right place at the right time. For government contractors, understanding NSNs is essential for accurate bidding, fulfillment, and overall compliance.

Definition

The NSN is a 13-digit code that uniquely identifies items of supply used throughout the U.S. Federal Government. It's comprised of the 4-digit Federal Supply Class (FSC) code, which groups items of supply into logically related commodity groups, and the 9-digit National Item Identification Number (NIIN), which is unique to each specific item. NSNs are managed by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and are used across various federal agencies, including the Department of Defense (DoD), General Services Administration (GSA), and others.

The NSN system is integral to efficient inventory management, procurement, and logistics within the government. Its use is mandated in numerous Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) provisions, particularly those related to supply contracts. Contractors must understand and correctly utilize NSNs when responding to solicitations, preparing proposals, and fulfilling contract requirements to avoid delays, rejections, and potential penalties.

Key Points

• Standardized Identification: NSNs provide a standardized way to identify items, eliminating ambiguity and ensuring everyone refers to the same thing.
• Federal Supply Classes (FSC): The FSC classifies items into categories like "Hand Tools," "Electronics," or "Clothing," helping to organize and manage the vast inventory.
• Contract Compliance: Accurate use of NSNs is essential for complying with contract requirements and avoiding discrepancies in deliveries.
• Logistics Efficiency: NSNs streamline the ordering, storing, and distribution of supplies across the federal government.

Practical Examples

1. Bidding on a Solicitation: A solicitation for "Screws, Machine, Pan Head" includes the NSN 5305-01-211-6543. As a contractor, you must ensure the screws you bid meet the exact specifications associated with that NSN.
2. Submitting a Proposal: When submitting a proposal for a contract requiring specific supplies, including the NSN for each item demonstrates your understanding of the requirement and your ability to provide the correct items.
3. Fulfilling a Contract: During contract fulfillment, using the correct NSN on shipping labels and packing slips ensures the receiving agency can properly identify and process the delivery, preventing delays and potential rejection of the shipment.