How many numbers does an NSN have?

An NSN, or National Stock Number, is composed of 13 digits. This number is structured to provide a unique identity for items in the supply chain, particularly within the context of the U.S. Department of Defense logistics. The 13 digits are divided into several parts: the first four digits represent the Federal Supply Class (FSC), which identifies the category of the item, while the next two digits indicate the country of origin, and the final set of digits is a unique identifying number for the specific item within that class.

The significance of a 13-digit format ensures that a vast number of items can be cataloged without duplication, allowing for efficient inventory management and ordering procedures. Each digit in the NSN has a specific purpose, contributing to the overall utility of the system in tracking and managing military and government supplies on a global scale.

While other answers propose differing counts, none match the established standard format of a 13-digit NSN.