CAGE Code
CAGE Code
CAGE Code (Commercial and Government Entity Code)
A CAGE Code, or Commercial and Government Entity Code, is a five-character identifier assigned to businesses and organizations that work with the U.S. government. The CAGE code is used to uniquely identify contractors, streamline procurement, and track federal vendors.
What is a CAGE Code
The CAGE code meaning is straightforward: it is a unique identifier for government contractors. If someone asks, “What is a CAGE code?” the answer is that it is required for businesses to bid on and receive federal contracts or grants. CAGE codes are maintained by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and are linked to SAM.gov registrations.
How to Get a CAGE Code
You can get a CAGE code by registering your business in SAM.gov. Once your registration is complete and active, the Defense Logistics Agency automatically assigns your business a CAGE code at no cost. There is no separate application process, though businesses outside the U.S. may be assigned NCAGE codes through NATO.
CAGE Code Lookup and Finder
A CAGE code lookup can be performed using free government tools. Contractors and agencies often use a CAGE code finder or search tool to verify business information and eligibility. The Defense Logistics Agency maintains the official CAGE code search database, which allows users to search by business name, address, or code.
CAGE code look up tip: Always use official government websites to avoid third-party scams that charge for free services.
Examples of CAGE Codes
CAGE codes are not descriptive of industry like NAICS or PSC codes—they are simply unique identifiers. An example might look like 1ABC2, which is specific to a single business entity. Some contractors may hear the term “80/20 CAGE code,” which typically refers to business strategies or contracting goals, but in most cases, it is unrelated to the official CAGE code system.
Why CAGE Codes Are Important
CAGE codes matter because they:
Identify businesses in federal procurement systems
Link to SAM.gov registrations and UEI numbers
Ensure eligibility for federal contracts and grants
Are used by contracting officers and agencies to verify vendors
Without a valid CAGE code, a business cannot receive federal contract awards or payments.
How GovDash Helps with CAGE Codes
GovDash helps contractors by ensuring compliance with registrations like CAGE codes, UEIs, and NAICS codes. GovDash automatically integrates this information into compliance matrices and proposal content, reducing errors and saving time. Contractors can focus on winning opportunities rather than tracking registration details.
Final Thoughts
A CAGE code is one of the fundamental identifiers in government contracting. By completing SAM.gov registration, businesses receive a CAGE code automatically from the DLA. With it, contractors can bid on contracts, receive awards, and maintain compliance in federal procurement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a CAGE code?
A CAGE code is a five-character identifier assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency to businesses working with the federal government.
How do I get a CAGE code?
Register in SAM.gov. Once your registration is active, the DLA assigns your CAGE code automatically and free of charge.
Where can I look up a CAGE code?
You can use the official DLA CAGE code lookup or search tools to find businesses by name, address, or CAGE code.
What is the difference between a CAGE code and a UEI?
A CAGE code identifies a contractor in DLA and procurement systems, while a UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) is the governmentwide identifier used in SAM.gov. Both are required for contracting.
What is the 80/20 CAGE code?
The phrase sometimes appears in contracting discussions but is not part of the official CAGE code system. Always verify codes through the official DLA database.