Definition: United Nations Common Coding System

Category: Classifications

The United Nations Common Coding System (UNCCS) is a generic, 6-digit coding system designed to facilitate electronic commerce, simplify procurement, and provide opportunities for cost-reduction for purchasers and suppliers. It is the only system developed specifically for the needs of purchasers and suppliers, and is one of the few coding systems that covers both goods and services. In order to supply to the UN system, businesses and governments must use UNCCS as their coding system. While other coding systems do not "speak" to each other because of different structures, UNCCS ensures worldwide acceptance by correlating with major international classification systems. Correlation tables are available (against payment)