Commercial and Government Entity Code (CAGE)
A CAGE Code (Commercial and Government Entity Code) is a five-character alphanumeric identifier assigned to companies that do business with the U.S. federal government, uniquely identifying a supplier within federal procurement and logistics systems.
What Is a CAGE Code?
A CAGE Code (Commercial and Government Entity Code) is a five-character alphanumeric identifier assigned to companies that do business with the U.S. federal government, particularly defense agencies.
It uniquely identifies a supplier within federal procurement and logistics systems and is issued and maintained by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).
Key Characteristics of a CAGE Code
Unique Identifier: Each CAGE Code is specific to a single legal business entity and physical location.
Five-Character Format: Consists of letters and numbers (e.g., 1A2B3), assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency.
Required for Federal Contracting: Mandatory for companies seeking U.S. government contracts, appearing on contracts, purchase orders, invoices, and payment systems.
International Equivalent (NCAGE): Foreign entities receive an NCAGE (NATO Commercial and Government Entity) Code instead of a standard CAGE Code.
How CAGE Codes Work in Government Contracting
Step 1: Registration in SAM.gov
Companies receive a CAGE Code when registering in the federal procurement system at SAM.gov.
The process is free and typically takes 10–15 business days after a completed and validated SAM registration.
Step 2: Use Across Federal Systems
Once assigned, the CAGE Code is used to identify vendors in federal procurement systems, track contract awards and payments, and link supplier data across government databases.
It appears on federal contracts, purchase orders, invoices, payment systems, and defense logistics records.
Step 3: Ongoing Maintenance
Contractors must ensure their CAGE information remains accurate and synchronized with SAM registration data.
Each physical location performing under a contract may require its own separate CAGE Code.
Why CAGE Codes Matter in Government Contracting
A valid CAGE Code is essential because:
It is required to compete for federal contracts
It enables payment processing across government systems
It supports compliance verification and contractor eligibility
It connects contractor information across federal databases
It is used in security and supply chain risk reviews
Without a CAGE Code, a company cannot receive most federal awards.
CAGE Code requirements are embedded in FAR Clause 52.204-16 and DFARS Clause 252.204-7001.
Common Misconceptions About CAGE Codes
A CAGE Code is the same as a UEI.
A UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) identifies the entity for federal assistance and contracts, while a CAGE Code is specifically used in procurement and logistics systems.
Only defense contractors need a CAGE Code.
Most federal contractors require a CAGE Code, not just defense suppliers.
There is a fee to obtain a CAGE Code.
Obtaining a CAGE Code through SAM registration is completely free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I obtain a CAGE Code?
By registering your business in SAM.gov. The CAGE Code is assigned during the registration process at no cost.
How long does it take to receive one?
Typically 10–15 business days after a completed and validated SAM registration.
Do I need a separate CAGE Code for each location?
Yes. Each physical location performing under a contract may require its own CAGE Code.
What is an NCAGE Code?
An NCAGE Code is the international equivalent issued to foreign entities contracting with U.S. or NATO agencies.
Related Government Contracting Topics
System for Award Management (SAM): The federal registration portal where contractors register to do business with the U.S. government and receive a CAGE Code.
Unique Entity Identifier (UEI): A 12-character identifier assigned to entities doing business with the federal government, replacing the former DUNS number.
Defense Logistics Agency (DLA): The Department of Defense agency responsible for issuing and managing CAGE Codes.
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR): The primary set of rules governing federal procurement, including contractor identification requirements.
NCAGE Code: The NATO-issued version of the CAGE Code required for foreign entities contracting with U.S. or NATO agencies.