National Stock Numbers

National Stock Numbers FAQ

What are NSN Stock Numbers?

NSN Stock numbers (National Stock Numbers) are numerical identifiers assigned by the United States Government’s Federal Logistics Information System (FLIS) to items that are procured, stocked, and issued through the federal supply system. They are required for every item that is purchased or stocked by the government, such as tools, parts, or aviation sealants.

What is an NSN Lookup?

NSN lookup, or National Stock Number Lookup, is a process used to identify an item based on its assigned NSN number. This type of search is often used by government agencies, military personnel, and aerospace companies like NSL Aerospace, to find a part's National Stock Number. Also, NSN lookups can help government and military agencies, as well as aerospace companies, track and monitor NSNs, ensuring all parts and materials used in their operations are up-to-date and compliant with the Department of Defense’s standards.

What makes an NSN Number?

NSN numbers contain a unique 13-digit identification code. National Stock Numbers are critical in purchasing, storing, shipping, and inventorying items used throughout the military and other government entities. The NSN number is composed of several key parts. The first four digits of an NSN number represent the Federal Supply Classification (FSC) group for the item, which is a broad categorization based on its use. The next two digits represent the National Item Identification number (NINN), which identifies the specific item within the FSC group. The next two digits are the NATO country code, or the country responsible for the item’s production, and the final five digits are specific to a particular manufacturer or supplier.