What is a CAGE Code?

A Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code is a five-character identifier for companies pursuing business with the Federal Government. The code may vary based on country. The only authorized source for obtaining CAGE codes is the DLA Logistics Information Service, located in Battle Creek, MI. There is currently no fee or associated subscription charges related to CAGE codes and they do not have an expiration date.


What are CAGE Codes Used for?


  • Provides a standardized method of identifying a given facility at a specific location

  • Prime contractors often require sub-contractors to have one

  • Used by the Department of Defense (DOD) to support procurement acquisition and payments

  • Assignment of DOD Activity Address Codes (DODAAC)



Why are CAGE Codes Important?


  • Facility Clearance

  • Pre-Award Survey Engineering Rights

  • Pay Processes

  • Source of Supply

  • Automated Bidders Lists

  • Identify the source of supply on over 14 million reference numbers in the Federal Catalog System (FCS)



Who Uses CAGE Codes?


  • Department of Defense

  • Department of Transportation

  • NASA



CAGE Code for Entities Outside the United States


  • Known asNATO Commercial and Government Entity Codes (NCAGE)

  • Assigned internationally as part of the NATO Codification System (NCS)

  • Required for all foreign entities

  • For more information: NATO Support Agency NCAGE Help Guide



How to Get a CAGE Code?


  1. Visit: https://www.sam.gov/SAM/
  2. Register in SAM
  3. CAGE is assigned to your company as part of SAM validation process
  4. Once registration is active, log into SAM account
  5. View your CAGE code