It's hard to find anyone in Brazil who isn’t familiar with the concept of the CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas), the personal identification number every Brazilian citizen has. Without it, individuals are unable to carry out numerous administrative and legal tasks.

In the business world, the tax identifier serves a similar purpose, but for companies that operate internationally or wish to partner with large players, another registration is necessary: the DUNS Number. This is a company identification number created through a patented process by CIAL Dun & Bradstreet.

Today, you’ll learn what the D-U-N-S Number is, the opportunities it opens for your company, and why it’s essential for any business that wants to grow safely and sustainably.

What is the D-U-N-S Number?

DUNS stands for Data Universal Numbering System, a global company identification system. It’s similar to an international CNPJ for businesses looking to enter global markets or partner with major players.

You can also think of the D-U-N-S Number as a sort of business passport that helps companies expand globally. It is a 9-digit, unique, non-transferable code managed by CIAL Dun & Bradstreet, based on nearly 200 years of company data.

With this code, companies of all sizes, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), can prove their legitimacy and qualify to do business with global market giants. Over 520 million companies worldwide use this system, including more than 20 million in Latin America alone.

What are the benefits of having a D-U-N-S Number?

The DUNS Number acts as a legitimacy certificate for a company in the eyes of international partners. It helps verify business information, facilitates tracking of trade credit, and enables companies to participate in government bids from the U.S., Australia, and the European Commission.

The DUNS Number is also crucial for businesses that want to collaborate with global industry giants such as Coca-Cola or Apple. For instance, to publish an app on the Apple Store, a company must present its D-U-N-S Number.

It’s worth noting that the D-U-N-S Number applies to businesses of all sizes and industries, not just digital companies. However, it's particularly recommended for digital enterprises and those looking to expand internationally.

Among the companies that regularly use this registration are Gerdau, AT&T, Canon, Ferrero, Hyundai, and TOTVS.

Greater visibility and credibility with potential partners

A key feature of the DUNS Number is that it strengthens a company’s credibility in the market. It is essential for businesses looking to expand and compete with global players. It also streamlines loan processes and contract signings for companies that have the registration.

Additionally, a business with a D-U-N-S Number is listed in CIAL Dun & Bradstreet’s database, gaining visibility with major companies searching for suppliers.

This registration has become a standard for tracking companies in the business world, with many companies regularly consulting this database.

How to get a D-U-N-S Number?

To obtain a D-U-N-S Number, the first step is to contact CIAL Dun & Bradstreet via their website by clicking the "we'll call you" button.

From there, you just need to wait for their response and more information about the process.

The timeframe for obtaining a D-U-N-S Number depends on the urgency indicated by the applicant. It can take up to 30 days, but priority requests can shorten this to as little as a week, or even 24 to 48 hours.

Join the world's largest commercial data network

For companies looking to boost their attractiveness as suppliers and partners to major corporations, expand internationally, or be listed in the world's largest corporate database, the D-U-N-S Number is a key part of their strategy.

This service, brought to you by CIAL Dun & Bradstreet, the leading provider of data, analytics, and business platforms in Latin America and the Caribbean, can make a significant difference for your business. Visit the website to learn how the D-U-N-S Number can help your company grow.

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