If you run a business or you’re just getting started, chances are you’ve come across the term D-U-N-S Number and thought, “Do I actually need that?”
If you’re planning to bid for government contracts, work with larger organisations, or grow your business through public sector opportunities, then yes, you probably do.
In this article (and the video above), I’ll walk you through:
- What a D-U-N-S Number is
- Why it matters for your business
- And how to get one, step by step
What is a DUNS number?
D-U-N-S stands for Data Universal Numbering System. It’s a unique 9-digit number that identifies your business, kind of like a business ID.
It’s issued by a company called Dun & Bradstreet, and it helps organisations like government agencies, banks, and large companies look up basic info about your business. Things like:
- Are you legit?
- How long have you been trading?
- Can you be trusted to deliver?
Basically, it puts your business on the map.
Think of it this way — just like you have a personal credit score to show your reliability with money, your business has a credit profile too. And your DUNS number is the key to building that up.
Why do I need a DUNS number?
There are a few key situations where having a DUNS number isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
You’ll likely need one if you want to:
- Apply for government contracts
- Work with larger suppliers or public bodies
- Expand your business overseas
- Start building business credit
Even if you’re not bidding just yet, getting your D-U-N-S number sorted early means you’re ready when those opportunities come up.
How do I get one?
Good news, it’s free and pretty simple.
Just head over to the Dun & Bradstreet website and fill in a short application form with some basic details about your business:
– Name
– Address
– Number of employees
– Type of organisation, etc.
In the video, I walk you through the whole process, step-by-step, so you know exactly what to expect.
What happens after you apply?
Once you’ve submitted the form, you’ll get an email with your D-U-N-S Number. Easy!
Just a quick note: it can take 4 to 6 weeks for your number to show up in the D-U-N-S lookup tool on the Dun & Bradstreet website and in other databases. So if you get an email saying your number can’t be verified right away, don’t panic. That’s totally normal while everything updates behind the scenes.
In Simple Terms
Getting a DUNS number is one of those simple yet important steps that can unlock big opportunities, especially if you’re looking to grow through tenders, contracts, or partnerships.
So if you’re thinking big for your business, start here. It’s free, it’s easy, and it gets your business ready for what’s next.
