Guide to Codes This chart may help you sort out some of the major codes used within SAM.

CODE - DUNS Number
Definition - Data Universal Numbering System
Description - Unique identifier assigned by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). Mandatory to begin SAM registration. Nine-digit numeric code, no spaces.
Where to find the right one for your entity - D&B

CODE - MPIN
Definition - Marketing Partner Identification Number
Description - The MPIN is a self-created access code that will be shared with authorized partner applications [e.g., Past Performance Information Retrieval System (PPIRS), Federal Business Opportunities, etc.] It must be nine characters long and include at least one letter, one number, and no spaces or special characters.
Where to find the right one for your entity -The MPIN is created in SAM and managed by the administrator or registration representative for your entity's registration in SAM.

CODE - CAGE Code
Definition - Commercial and Government Entity Code
Description - Unique Identifier assigned by Department of Defense for entities located in the U.S and its territories. Five-character alphanumeric value, no spaces. Must be in uppercase format. It is not necessary to have a CAGE Code before registration.
Where to find the right one for your entity - If you are and entity located in the U.S. or one of its territories and do not already have a CAGE Code, one will be assigned to you upon activation of your SAM record.

CODE - NCAGE Code
Definition - North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) CAGE Code
Description - Unique identifier required for all foreign entities registering in SAM. Five-character, alphanumeric value, no spaces. Must be in uppercase format.
Where to find the right one for your entity - NCAGE Code Application form

CODE - NAICS Codes
Definition - North American Industry Classification System
Description - Mandatory codes that identify what type of activity (e.g. Agriculture, construction, manufacturing, etc.) an entity performs, as well as the type of product or service offered.
Where to find the right one for your entity - U.S. Census Bureau

CODE - FSC Codes
Definition - Federal Supply Class Codes
Description - Optional, four-character, numeric code used to describe the products your business sells. FSC Codes are now included in the Product Service Code (PSC) list found in the Assertions section of a SAM entity registration.
Where to find the right one for your entity - FSC Codes

CODE - PSC codes
Definition - Product Service Codes
Description - Optional, four-character, alpha-numeric code that describes the services your business offers, no spaces.
Where to find the right one for your company - PSC Codes