A DUNS Number (Data Universal Numbering System) is a unique 9-digit identification number issued by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). It is globally recognized and used to verify the credibility and identity of businesses involved in international trade, regulatory filings, and supply chain operations.
For Indian companies planning to expand globally-especially into the United States market-a DUNS Number is often a mandatory requirement.
A DUNS Number plays a critical role in business verification and international compliance. It is required for:
1. US FDA Facility Registration (mandatory for food, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies)
2. Business verification by US importers, banks, and government authorities
3. Participation in US government tenders and contracts
4. Registration on global e-commerce and supply chain platforms such as Amazon, Walmart, and other international marketplaces
5. Building global business credibility and trust with overseas partners
You should apply for a DUNS Number if you are:
1. An exporter or manufacturer supplying goods to the USA
2. A food, pharma, or medical device company requiring US FDA registration
3. A startup or MSME onboarding international marketplaces
4. A business involved in import-export, logistics, or global supply chains
Step 1: Apply on the Dun & Bradstreet Portal
1. Visit the official Dun & Bradstreet India website or the DUNS Request Portal
2. Select the correct purpose of application (FDA registration, government contracts, business verification, etc.)
Step 2: Submit Business Information
You will be required to provide accurate business details, including:
1. Legal business name, address, and contact details
2. Type of ownership (Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Private Limited, etc.)
3. Business registration documents
4. PAN and GST details
5. Nature of business and industry classification
Step 3: Verification by Dun & Bradstreet
1. D&B conducts verification through phone calls, email confirmation, and document checks
2. If any clarification or additional documents are required, D&B will contact the authorized representative
Step 4: Issuance of DUNS Number
1. Once verification is complete, D&B assigns a unique 9-digit DUNS Number
2. The number is permanently linked to your business profile and used for all global trade and compliance purposes
For Indian exporters, especially in regulated sectors, the DUNS Number is closely linked with
US FDA registration:
1. US FDA registration is mandatory for food, pharmaceutical, and medical device exports to the USA
2. Non-US companies must appoint a US FDA Agent
3. The FDA now mandates a DUNS Number for facility registrations
4. Although DUNS and FDA registrations are separate, both are interlinked for regulatory compliance
At xLegal, we provide end-to-end assistance for:
1. DUNS Number registration
2. US FDA Facility Registration
3. Appointment of US FDA Agent
4. Documentation, verification, and compliance support
Our experts ensure error-free applications, faster approvals, and complete regulatory compliance, so you can focus on growing your global business.
Need expert assistance? xLegal Team provides end-to-end support for this, Contact us at +91 9319661668, info@xlegal.in