CAGE Code Lookup: What You Need to Know

The Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code is a unique identifier assigned to suppliers to various government or defense agencies, as well as to government agencies themselves and other organizations. It is a crucial part of doing business with the federal government. This article covers what a CAGE code is, its importance, how you can look it up, and the relevant procedures and systems involved.

Understanding CAGE Codes

A CAGE code is a five-character identifier assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) for entities located in the United States and by NATO for entities located outside the United States. The code helps government agencies, contractors, and other entities to identify and track businesses. CAGE codes are used for a variety of purposes, including payment processing, logistics, and procurement. The DLA assigns a CAGE code to an entity after it registers in the System for Award Management (SAM).

Why CAGE Codes Are Important

CAGE codes are essential for companies that wish to do business with the government. They are required for contracting and procurement, ensuring that businesses are legitimate and meet the necessary standards. Additionally, CAGE codes facilitate the tracking and identification of suppliers, making the procurement process smoother and more efficient. They also help in managing parts and suppliers in the defense sector, verifying security clearances, and facilitating communication between government agencies and contractors.

How to Look Up a CAGE Code

• Government Websites: The most straightforward way to look up a CAGE code is through the DLA’s official website or the System for Award Management (SAM) website. These platforms allow searching by various criteria like company name, DUNS number, or CAGE code itself.
• DLA LOGISTICS INFORMATION SERVICE: Another resource is the DLA Logistics Information Service, which maintains an extensive database for CAGE code information. This service allows for detailed searches and verifications.
• National Institutes of Health: For researchers and academics, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) also offers tools for looking up and verifying CAGE codes.

Steps to Perform a CAGE Code Lookup

The process to perform a CAGE code lookup is relatively straightforward:

1. Visit the SAM website or the DLA’s official CAGE search tool.
2. Enter the existing information such as the company’s name, address, or DUNS number.
3. Submit the search query.
4. Review the search results to find the CAGE code. This should include basic company information, ensuring you’ve found the correct entity.

Each platform might have slight variations in their search processes, but the core steps are generally the same.

Helpful Tips for CAGE Code Lookup

• Always double-check the entered information for spelling and accuracy.
• Use multiple criteria to narrow down search results. For instance, using both the company name and the address can yield more precise results.
• Ensure you are using the official websites to avoid potential scams or incorrect information.

Updating and Maintaining Your CAGE Code

It is essential to keep your CAGE code information updated. Any changes in company details like address, ownership, or business status should be reflected in the SAM database. The process to update your CAGE code information typically involves logging into your SAM account, making the necessary updates, and resubmitting the information.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete Information: Ensure all necessary fields are filled out when conducting a lookup. Missing details can lead to inaccurate search results.
• Outdated Information: Regularly update your SAM profile to ensure the CAGE code information is current and accurate. Changes in your business should be promptly reported.
• Not Cross-Referencing: Verify the found CAGE code against multiple sources or databases to ensure its accuracy and validity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the difference between a DUNS number and a CAGE code?
  A DUNS number is a nine-digit number used to identify a business entity, whereas a CAGE code is a five-character identifier used for government contracting.
• Can non-U.S. companies obtain a CAGE code?
  Yes, non-U.S. companies can obtain a CAGE code through NATO if they wish to conduct business with U.S. government agencies.
• Do CAGE codes expire?
  No, but it is crucial to keep the information updated in the SAM database.