DUNS Numbers for Amazon Importers
When you’re importing food, beverages, or dietary supplements for sale on Amazon, you face a long checklist of steps to ensure your business complies with FDA regulations. Amazon is one of the largest markets in the world. In fact, more than 213 million unique U.S. individuals visit the site each month. As a result, many sellers vie to get their products featured on the popular platform. Although Amazon simplifies the selling process for many businesses, goods sold on Amazon still need to achieve FDA compliance. For example, Amazon sellers of food, beverages, and dietary supplements must obtain a DUNS number.
What is a DUNS number?
Created by Dun & Bradstreet, DUNS numbers are 9-digit identifiers assigned to businesses. DUNS numbers aren’t limited to businesses located in the United States. A business’s DUNS number allows third parties to look up information about that business, including their company name, location, and phone number. DUNS numbers can also provide details about any headquarters or branches associated with a company. One of the main uses of a DUNS number is for potential partners to assess the financial health of a business they’d like to work with. Dun & Bradstreet calculates a credit report from each company’s Live Business Identity, a “dynamic descriptor” that captures the essential details of a company.
Why do Amazon importers need a DUNS number?
While a DUNS number is assigned to all sorts of businesses, businesses who import food, beverages, or dietary supplements to sell on Amazon are required to have a DUNS number to register with the FDA.
Beyond the FDA requirement, Amazon importers who hope to obtain a loan or partner with other businesses will need a DUNS number to prove their financial stability. Although there are other ways to present your business’s credit and financial status, the DUNS system is one of the most reputable databases.
How do you obtain a DUNS number?
You will need all of the following information in order to request a DUNS number:
- The name of your business
- The address of your business
- Name of the owner or executive of your business
- The legal structure of your business
- The year your business became established
- The type of business
- Your total headcount of employees
Obtaining a DUNS number is a relatively quick process and will likely take less than 30 days. You can apply for a DUNS number online or through an import specialist like US Imports. The benefits of using a specialist to obtain a DUNS number for you include accuracy and timeliness of your request. We can help you identify the information needed to apply and make the process easier for you. Plus, using a specialist reduces the likelihood of any errors in your application, which could cause a chain reaction of delays in your importing timeline.
Takeaway
Before importing food, beverages, or dietary supplements for sale on Amazon, you will need to obtain a DUNS number. This 9-digit identifier is required to register with the FDA and helps other businesses learn more about your company. If you’re looking to have a specialist assist you with the process, US Imports can help you get a DUNS number for an affordable price.
Sources:
https://techjury.net/blog/amazon-statistics/#gref
https://www.dnb.com/duns-number.html
