What is a CAGE Code? Complete Lookup & Verification Guide

A Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code is a unique, five-character alphanumeric identifier assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to track legal entities at specific physical facility locations. It serves as the primary facility identifier across federal contracting, defense procurement, and grant databases.

What is a CAGE Code?

A CAGE code functions as a standardized physical location identifier for businesses contracting with the U.S. federal government and Department of Defense (DoD).

While the federal government utilizes the 12-character Unique Entity ID (UEI) to identify an entity's legal business structure on SAM.gov, the CAGE code specifically pins that business to an audited manufacturing, warehousing, or operational site.

How to Conduct a CAGE Code Lookup & Search

When vetting aerospace vendors, verifying distributor credentials, or cross-referencing National Stock Numbers (NSN), conducting a prompt lookup ensures compliance with federal supply chain mandates.

ASAP Components Online Lookup Database

For rapid part-level verification, use the ASAP Components CAGE Code Lookup Tool. You can search by manufacturer name or 5-character CAGE code to access catalogs of approved parts, trace manufacturing history, and submit instant Requests for Quote (RFQ).

SAM.gov Entity Search

The System for Award Management provides legal entity lookups for active federal contractors:

• Navigate to SAM.gov and click Search Entity Records.
• Enter the legal business name, physical address, or Unique Entity ID.
• Review the entity profile snapshot to confirm active status, CAGE assignment, and expiration dates.

DLA CAGE Search & Inquiry (CSI) Portal

For direct defense logistics verification, access cage.dla.mil. This specialized portal enables fast facility lookups, international NCAGE validations, and cross-indexing with National Stock Numbers.

How to Get a CAGE Code: Step-by-Step Registration

Domestic U.S. businesses do not apply directly to the DLA through a separate application. Instead, CAGE assignment occurs automatically upon completing entity registration in SAM.gov.

Assemble Required Tax & Business Data: Gather your Employer Identification Number (EIN/TIN), exact physical operating address, banking details for direct deposit, and primary NAICS codes.

1. Create a SAM.gov Account: Log in through Login.gov and initiate an All Awards entity registration profile.
2. Pass Automated Address Validation: Ensure your physical address matches official IRS records down to the unit number. Address mismatches are the primary cause of DLA processing delays.
3. Automated DLA Assignment: Once SAM validates your entity details, your file automatically routes to the DLA CAGE Program Office. CAGE codes are issued within 3 to 10 business days.

CAGE Code Verification & Compliance Standards

Maintaining active CAGE status prevents payment holds, contract disqualifications, and shipment rejections on active military purchase orders.

• 5-Year Record Lifecycle: While SAM.gov profiles require annual renewals, standalone DLA CAGE records remain assigned for 5 years before requiring formal re-verification.
• 30-Day Status Change Rule (FAR 52.204-18): Contractors must notify their contracting officer and update SAM.gov within 30 days of any structural, address, or ownership modification.
• Distributor Traceability Requirements: Defense contractors must ensure that CAGE identifiers on physical packaging and Certificates of Conformance match the exact manufacturing facility registered with the DLA.

Simplify CAGE Code Sourcing with ASAP Components

Sourcing parts across defense, aerospace, and industrial supply chains requires verified component origin. ASAP Components simplifies procurement by pairing an extensive inventory of aircraft hardware, electronic components, and NSN items with complete CAGE code traceability.

By leveraging our structured search directory, you can instantly verify manufacturer origins, match CAGE codes to exact part numbers, and submit RFQs for fast, fully compliant delivery.

Regulatory Framework & Reference Documents

For federal procurement compliance guidelines, consult these official standards:

• Defense Logistics Agency CAGE Program Manual (CoAC): Defines operational rules, facility mapping standards, and international NCAGE structures.
• Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 4.18: Governs commercial entity identification, parent-entity tracking, and contractor reporting mandates.
• DFARS 252.204-7004: Outlines requirements for System for Award Management registration and mandatory CAGE maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a CAGE code assigned?

For domestic entities, assignment takes 3 to 10 business days following SAM.gov address validation. International entities requiring an NCAGE code generally take 10 to 15 business days.

Do CAGE codes expire?

Yes. While your annual SAM.gov renewal keeps your profile active year-to-year, the physical CAGE record requires formal re-verification every 5 years through the DLA system.

Is a CAGE code the same as a UEI?

No. A UEI identifies your overarching legal corporate entity, whereas a CAGE code identifies the specific physical facility where manufacturing, warehousing, or operational work occurs.

Conclusion

Managing federal identifiers is essential for maintaining government contracting eligibility and ensuring end-to-end supply chain compliance. By performing routine CAGE verifications, updating facility records within mandatory 30-day windows, and partnering with verified distributors like ASAP Components, you can streamline defense procurement without administrative roadblocks.