When importing food products into the United States, one requirement that often surprises new importers is the Dun & Bradstreet D-U-N-S® Number. This unique nine-digit identifier is used by federal agencies, including the FDA, to verify the identity of the business responsible for importing food into the U.S.

If your documentation does not include a valid DUNS number, your shipment cannot move forward in the import process — leading to costly delays, holds, or refusals.

In this video, Tim Forrest breaks down why the DUNS number is essential, how to get one, and what you must have ready before applying.

What Is a DUNS Number — and Why Does the FDA Require It?

A DUNS number is a globally recognized identification system that provides government agencies and financial institutions with a verified business profile.

For food imports, the FDA uses the DUNS number to:

• Confirm the identity of the importer

• Validate physical business locations

• Support facility registration

• Strengthen accountability in the supply chain

It is a core requirement for FDA Food Facility Registration, FSVP compliance, and U.S. import documentation.

You Must Set Up Your Business First

Before you can request your DUNS number, you must have already formed your:

• LLC,

• Corporation, or

• Registered business entity

The DUNS number is tied to a legal business, so you cannot obtain one under an individual’s name unless you are registered as a sole proprietorship.

How to Apply for a DUNS Number — Step by Step

Tim recommends using the dedicated government-supported links to avoid unnecessary fees.

1. Use the Official Channels

The DUNS number is free when obtained through these sites:

• https://www.dnb.com/duns-number.html

• https://fdadunslookup.com

These are the approved portals for businesses submitting FDA-related registrations.

2. Allow Processing Time

Most businesses receive their DUNS number within a few days, but depending on:

• New business registration

• Incomplete documents

• Verification requirements

…it may take several weeks or even up to two months.

For that reason, Tim advises starting the DUNS application as early as possible — ideally before your shipment is ever booked.

3. Have Your Business Details Ready

You will need:

• Legal business name

• Registered address

• Contact information

• Business start date

• Owner or principal details

Make sure all information matches your incorporation documents.

Want Help Getting the Correct DUNS Report?

Tim’s team provides a special link and guidance for obtaining a DUNS number specifically for government and FDA import use.

Simply email:
📩 [email protected]
…to request the information and support.

This ensures you follow the correct pathway and avoid delays caused by incomplete or incorrect submissions.

A DUNS Number Is Just One Part of the U.S. Import Process

The DUNS number is only one of the many requirements that impact:

• FDA Prior Notice

• Facility registration

• Port of entry clearance

• FSVP importer responsibilities

• Customs processing

• Distributor onboarding

Tim’s team has spent decades helping global brands enter the United States smoothly, avoiding mistakes that cause unnecessary delays, relabeling, or re-export orders.

Bring Your Food Product Into the USA With Confidence

If you’re preparing to enter the U.S. market and want expert guidance on:

• FDA compliance

• Label reviews

• Facility requirements

• Import documentation

• Customs and port entry

• Distributor or retailer strategy

Tim can help you streamline the entire process.

👉 Schedule an appointment with Tim at www.timforrest.com
If you have an innovative food product or a growing brand, this call could save you months of uncertainty and thousands in avoidable costs.