What does the term "NSN" stand for in MILSTRIP?

The term "NSN" stands for National Stock Number, which is a unique identifier assigned to each item of supply in the federal supply system. The NSN is essential for ensuring accurate inventory management, sourcing, and logistics within military and government operations. It allows different organizations to effectively communicate about specific items, streamlining the procurement and distribution processes.

The NSN itself consists of 13 digits, including a 4-digit Federal Supply Class code that identifies the item category, followed by a unique 9-digit identifier for each specific item. This systematic approach helps maintain standardization across various branches of the military and government agencies, facilitating the efficient management and tracking of supplies and equipment.

Understanding the significance of the National Stock Number helps personnel correctly identify and order items, reducing errors and improving operational efficiency within supply chain management.