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Definition

What is an NSN?

An NSN, or National Stock Number, is the 13-digit number that identifies a supply item in the federal catalog. DLA RFQs on DIBBS are posted by NSN.

How an NSN is built

Format example: 5305-01-234-5678.

  • FSC: the first four digits (5305), the Federal Supply Class.
  • NIIN: the last nine digits (01-234-5678), the National Item Identification Number.

Finding an NSN

Search the manufacturer part number with its CAGE code in DLA's free sources, such as WebFLIS and PUB LOG. The CAGE code is what makes the match exact. See NSN lookup and How to research an NSN before you bid.

Where FedOpp fits

FedOpp's NSN lookup covers 17.0 million NSN items (as of Oct 2, 2026) with approved sources, related solicitations, and past suppliers, next to live DIBBS RFQs and SAM.gov notices. You bid on DIBBS yourself.

For the 9-digit part, see NIIN vs NSN.

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