D-U-N-S Number Common Mistakes Businesses Must Avoid

Applying for a DUNS number is an important milestone for businesses that want to establish credibility, expand globally, or work with large enterprises and government institutions. Yet, many companies face unexpected delays or even outright rejections simply because of avoidable errors during the application process. This guide walks you through the most common mistakes businesses make when applying for a DUNS and how you can avoid them to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience.

A DUNS number is a unique nine-digit identifier assigned to businesses by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). This number verifies your company’s legal existence and helps organizations track its global credit profile. Many corporations, financial institutions, and government departments require a DUNS as part of their vendor onboarding, compliance checks, and credit evaluation processes. In short, if your business wants to work with large enterprises or enter international markets, a DUNS number is essential.

Most application errors occur due to outdated documents, inconsistent business information, or misunderstanding of how D&B verifies data. Since D&B cross-checks your details against multiple public and government records, even small inconsistencies can slow the process.

Let’s break down the most common errors and how you can avoid them.

1. Submitting Incomplete or Outdated Business Information

   One of the top reasons for delays in getting a DUNS number is providing old or mismatched business information. Common issues include:

   • Outdated legal entity details
   • Incorrect or approximate business start date
   • Inconsistent address formats
   • Old ownership or director information
   • Unregistered trade names or DBAs

   How to Avoid This Mistake

   Before applying, ensure all your business information legal name, address, registration details, GST/MCA records, and ownership documents match perfectly. Consistency across government databases, tax documents, and your official website is critical.

2. Using Personal Contact Details Instead of Business Contacts

   Many applicants mistakenly enter personal phone numbers or email addresses during the DUNS application.

   Why This Causes Delays

   D&B verifies your legitimacy using official business contact channels. Personal mobile numbers or generic emails (like Gmail or Yahoo) may raise compliance flags or slow down verification.

   Best Practice:

   • Business-domain email addresses
   • Company-registered mobile numbers or landlines
   • Contact details that appear on your website and regulatory documents

3. Entering the Wrong Industry Code or Description

   Industry classification plays a crucial role in your DUNS profile. Providing incorrect NAICS, NIC, or SIC codes can lead to profile mismatches or additional verification steps.

   How to Avoid This

   Refer to your government-registered industry code to ensure accuracy. Double-check the classification before submitting your application.

4. Not Checking Whether a DUNS Number Already Exists

   Applying for a new DUNS number without checking for an existing profile is a common mistake, especially for older companies or businesses that underwent name changes.

   Why This Is a Problem

   Duplicate applications require manual intervention from D&B, significantly increasing processing time.

   How to Check

   Search your business in the D&B database or contact D&B support to verify if your DUNS already exists.

5. Using an Incorrect Registered Address Format

   Even small address differences like abbreviations, spelling variations, or missing elements can cause verification failures.

   How to Ensure Accuracy

   Match your address exactly as it appears in:

   • GST records
   • MCA or ROC filings
   • Business registration documents

   Avoid abbreviations unless they are present in official records.

6. Providing Incorrect Director or Owner Details

   Outdated director information or mismatched names are common causes of DUNS application delays.

   How to Ensure Accuracy

   Update your legal records before applying. Ensure that ROC filings, ownership documents, and company information are all current and accurate.

7. Having an Incomplete or Inactive Business Website

   D&B often reviews your website during verification. If your website is incomplete, inaccessible, or missing critical information, your application may be delayed.

   Your Website Should Include:

   • Correct legal name and registered address
   • Updated contact details
   • Clear service/product descriptions
   • Accurate ownership or management information

8. Not Understanding the Purpose of a DUNS Number

   Some businesses mistakenly believe that a DUNS number affects taxation or replaces government identification numbers. It does not.

   When You Actually Need a DUNS

   • Vendor onboarding with large corporations
   • Export/import processes
   • Working with international companies
   • Establishing global credit profiles

9. Ignoring Verification Calls or Emails from D&B

   D&B may reach out for additional information. Not responding promptly can stall your application.

   How to Avoid Delays

   Monitor your email including spam folders and keep your business phone lines active during the application period.

10. Submitting Incorrect or Irrelevant Documents

    Wrong or outdated documents slow down verification.

    You Should Submit:

    • Valid business registration certificates
    • Address proof
    • Ownership/management records
    • A functioning business website

11. Expecting Instant Approval Without Understanding Processing Times

    Standard DUNS processing can take several business days. If you need urgent approval, you may need expedited services.

12. Not Updating Business Details After Getting Your DUNS Number

    Once you have your DUNS number, keeping your profile updated is crucial for ongoing credibility and compliance.

A clean, error-free DUNS application ensures quick verification, improved credibility, stronger global presence, and smoother onboarding with enterprise clients.

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