In today's digital world, it is more important than ever for large companies like Apple, Google, and Amazon to know exactly who they are doing business with. They want to be certain that they are collaborating with legitimate and trustworthy companies. This is where the D-U-N-S number comes into play. But what exactly is this number and why is it so important?
What is a D-U-N-S Number?
The D-U-N-S number is a unique identification number issued by Dun & Bradstreet to companies worldwide. The number helps gather and verify business information, including data such as:
- The official name of the company
- The adress
- The phone number
- Number of employees
- Year of establishment
- Financial information
This information is continually updated to ensure it is current and accurate.
Why do Apple, Google, and Amazon ask for a D-U-N-S Number?
Apple
When you sign up for the Apple Developer Program, Apple asks for your D-U-N-S Number. This allows them to verify the existence and legal registration of your company. It helps them prevent fraud and ensure their platform remains secure.
Google
At Google, the D-U-N-S Number can help expedite the verification process when signing up for monthly billing or their advertising program. While not mandatory, it simplifies and speeds up the assessment of your application.
Amazon
Amazon uses the D-U-N-S Number to assess the eligibility of businesses wanting to operate on their platform. The number helps Amazon verify the authenticity of a company and ensure it meets their requirements. This ensures that only reliable businesses gain access to their marketplace.
In the Netherlands, thousands of companies such as telecom and leasing companies, energy companies, banks, and insurers use the D-U-N-S Number daily as a unique identification tool to identify and verify businesses.
Interesting read: Data done right: 3 tips for optimal use of your (external) data.
Why is this important?
For large companies like Apple, Google, and Amazon, it is crucial to know who they are doing business with for several reasons:
- Safety: They want to protect their platforms from fraudulent activities.
- Reliability: By working with legitimate companies, they can ensure the quality and reliability of their services.
- Efficiency: The D-U-N-S Number accelerates the verification process, allowing applications to be reviewed and approved more quickly.
How do you apply for a D-U-N-S Number?
Every company registered with the Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands or with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (KBO) in Belgium is automatically assigned a D-U-N-S Number by Dun & Bradstreet. If you need your D-U-N-S Number, you can easily and quickly request it through our website. The process takes just two minutes. Go to this page and follow the simple instructions to receive your D-U-N-S Number.
What does it cost to apply for a D-U-N-S number?
In some countries, applying for a D-U-N-S number is free. However, this is not the case in the Netherlands. Altares Dun & Bradstreet continually invests in keeping the information associated with a D-U-N-S number up to date. This ongoing investment ensures the data remains accurate and reliable. For this reason, a small fee is charged for requesting a D-U-N-S number in the Netherlands. This fee helps us maintain the quality and accuracy of our data.
