Procurement Glossary
DUNS number: Unique company identification in procurement
November 19, 2025
The DUNS number is a nine-digit, unique identification code for companies worldwide that is issued by Dun & Bradstreet. In procurement, it enables the precise identification and evaluation of suppliers and the simplification of business processes. Find out below what the DUNS number is, how it is used in supplier management and what advantages it offers for procurement management.
Key Facts
- Nine-digit, unique identification code for companies worldwide
- Awarded by Dun & Bradstreet as a leading provider of business information
- Free registration for basic version, additional services available for a fee
- International recognition and use in over 200 countries
- Link to extensive company databases and credit rating information
Contents
Definition: DUNS number
The DUNS number (Data Universal Numbering System) is a standardized identification code that uniquely identifies companies and makes their business activities transparent.
Basic properties of the DUNS number
The DUNS number consists of nine digits without hyphens or spaces and is generated according to a specific algorithm. Each number is unique and remains permanently linked to the registered company, even if the company structure or location changes.
- Unique nine-digit number sequence
- Permanent assignment to the company
- International validity and recognition
- Link with company master data
DUNS number vs. other company identifiers
In contrast to national registration numbers such as the German commercial register number, the DUNS number offers global standardization. It differs from the VAT identification number due to its more comprehensive information content and the link to creditworthiness data.
Meaning of the DUNS number in Procurement
For purchasing organizations, the DUNS number enables efficient supplier selection and evaluation. It simplifies master data maintenance and supports credit checks through direct access to company information.
Methods and procedures
The systematic use of the DUNS number requires structured processes in supplier management and evaluation.
Registration process for suppliers
Companies can register with Dun & Bradstreet free of charge and receive their DUNS number within a few working days. The process involves providing basic information such as company name, address and business activity.
- Online registration via the D&B portal
- Verification of company data
- Automatic generation of the nine-digit number
- Integration into the global D&B database
Integration into procurement systems
Modern supplier portals integrate DUNS numbers as a mandatory field during registration. This enables automated data reconciliation and simplifies supplier onboarding.
Data validation and maintenance
Regular validation of DUNS numbers ensures data quality and up-to-dateness. Automated systems can monitor changes in the D&B database and make corresponding updates in their own systems.
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Important KPIs for DUNS numbers
The effectiveness of DUNS number usage can be measured and optimized using specific key figures.
Coverage of the supplier base
The proportion of suppliers with a valid DUNS number shows the completeness of data collection. A high degree of coverage enables better analyses and evaluations of the entire supplier base.
- Target value: >95% of active suppliers
- Measurement: Monthly evaluation
- Improvement: Systematic subsequent recording
Data quality index
The timeliness and accuracy of the data retrieved via DUNS numbers influences the quality of supplier assessments. Regular validations and corrections continuously improve data quality.
Process efficiency in onboarding
The processing time for registering new suppliers is significantly reduced by using DUNS numbers. Automated data transfer reduces manual entries and speeds up supplier start-up management.
Risks, dependencies and countermeasures
The use of the DUNS number entails specific risks that can be minimized by taking appropriate measures.
Data quality and timeliness
Outdated or incorrect information in the D&B database can lead to incorrect ratings. Companies should regularly check and update their own data.
- Quarterly review of master data
- Direct communication with D&B in the event of errors
- Additional validation through alternative sources
Dependence on Dun & Bradstreet
D&B's monopoly position in the awarding of DUNS creates a systemic dependency. Failures or changes in the D&B system can impair procurement processes. Risk diversification through alternative identification systems is recommended.
Data protection and compliance
Passing on DUNS numbers to third parties can raise data protection issues. Companies must ensure that the use complies with the applicable data protection regulations and that appropriate declarations of consent have been obtained.
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Practical example
An international automotive manufacturer implements DUNS numbers as a mandatory field in its global supplier portal. When registering new suppliers, the DUNS number is automatically requested and compared with the D&B database. This gives the company immediate access to creditworthiness information, company size and business activities. The implementation reduces onboarding time by 40% and significantly improves data quality.
- Automated data validation for supplier registration
- Immediate access to creditworthiness and company data
- Reduction of manual inspection processes by 60%
Trends & developments around DUNS numbers
Digitalization and increasing automation in procurement are increasing the importance of standardized company identifiers such as the DUNS number.
AI-supported supplier evaluation
Artificial intelligence uses DUNS numbers as a reference point for automated supplier evaluations. Machine learning algorithms analyze historical data and create forecasts based on unique company identification.
Blockchain integration
Blockchain technologies use DUNS numbers to verify supplier identities in decentralized networks. This increases transparency and security in global supply chains and supports supplier risk management.
Regulatory developments
International trade agreements and compliance requirements promote the standardization of company identifications. The DUNS number is increasingly required as a standard for official registrations and tenders.
Conclusion
The DUNS number is establishing itself as an indispensable standard for the unique identification of companies in global procurement. It simplifies supplier processes, improves data quality and enables efficient risk assessments. Companies that systematically integrate DUNS numbers into their procurement strategy benefit from reduced process times and increased transparency in supplier management.
FAQ
How much does a DUNS number cost?
The basic registration of a DUNS number is free of charge. Companies can register directly with Dun & Bradstreet and receive their number within a few working days. Only extended services such as detailed company reports or premium data updates are subject to a charge.
How long is a DUNS number valid for?
A DUNS number remains permanently linked to the company and does not expire. Even if the company moves, changes its name or is restructured, the company retains its original DUNS number. The number is only marked as inactive if the company is deleted.
Can companies have multiple DUNS numbers?
In principle, each legally independent business unit receives its own DUNS number. Subsidiaries, branches or business units can apply for separate numbers if they act as independent business units. This enables a differentiated assessment of different parts of the company.
How up-to-date is the data behind a DUNS number?
Dun & Bradstreet continuously updates company data from various sources such as public registers, media reports and direct company announcements. The timeliness varies depending on the type of information and can range from daily to quarterly. Companies can update their data themselves via the D&B portal.
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