What is FSG & FSC? What is the process of the Federal Supply Classification System?

In defense logistics and procurement practices, maintaining consistency and clarity is vital for ensuring operational readiness. To support this need, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) employs a standardized system known as the Federal Supply Classification (FSC). This system, which works in conjunction with National Stock Numbers (NSNs), provides a structured method for categorizing every item within the federal supply chain, assisting in accurate identification, sourcing, and management. In this blog, we will begin by reviewing how NSNs are structured, then explore the interconnected roles of Federal Supply Groups (FSGs) and FSCs for organizing defense-related items by function and application.

What Is a National Stock Number?

An NSN is a 13-digit numeric code used to identify standardized items of supply that are regularly procured, stored, issued, and used across the U.S. Department of Defense, federal agencies, and NATO member countries. By providing a universal identifier for each part, NSNs facilitate interoperability, logistics, and supply chain efficiency across multiple organizations and nations.

NSNs are structured as follows:

 XXXX-XX-XXXXXXX

• FSG: The first 2 digits represent the Federal Supply Group, broadly categorizing the item based on general function or commodity area.
• FSC: The first 4 digits combined make up the Federal Supply Class, further refining the classification of the part into more specific types within the overarching group.
• Country Code (NATO/National Codification Bureau Code): The 2 digits after the FSC are the National Codification Bureau (NCB) code, indicating the country that initially cataloged the item. For example, 00 and 01 both refer to the United States.
• National Item Identification Number (NIIN): The country code and final 7 digits form the NIIN, which uniquely identifies the product and remains constant even if the item originates from different manufacturers or suppliers.

The FSG and FSC in Practical Use

Now that we have outlined the structure and purpose of NSNs, we can dive deeper into how FSGs and FSCs are applied in real-world procurement scenarios. Together, they can help procurement professionals quickly ascertain and source the correct components based on both their general function and distinct application.

An FSG identifies one of the 78 broad commodity groups used in the federal supply system. It offers a high-level category to understand the general function of an item, such as Aircraft Components, Engine Accessories, or Electrical Equipment. Meanwhile, an FSC defines a specific class within an FSG, pinpointing the item’s particular function or area of use. This aids in distinguishing between parts that fall under the same broader category but serve different technical purposes.

Example: Aerospace Components

To illustrate how FSGs and FSCs organize parts, let us examine a couple of real-world classifications:

• FSG 15: This indicates aircraft and Airframe Structural Components, a general group that covers physical structures and airframe elements, excluding complete aircraft or propulsion systems.
  • FSC 1560: A subclass within Group 15, this FSC includes structural parts for fixed-wing aircraft, such as fuselage skins, fairings, bulkheads, longerons, stringers, and other airframe elements that are not part of the propulsion or landing gear systems.
• FSG 16: Aircraft Components and Accessories includes various components and assemblies essential to aircraft operation, particularly those associated with flight control, engine mounting, and other mechanical systems. It categorizes items not classified as structural parts or complete systems.
  • FSC 1615: This FSC covers Helicopter Rotor Blades, Drive Mechanisms, and Components, focusing on components that are unique to rotary-wing aircraft.

How to Use FSGs and FSCs in Procurement

Once you understand what FSGs and FSCs are and how to identify them within an NSN, these classifications become powerful tools for making informed procurement decisions. Rather than viewing them as simply a part of the NSN structure, you can use FSGs and FSCs to find parts that align with system requirements and meet compliance standards. For instance, you can:

• Source by FSG to find parts that neatly fit within the correct system or operational domain.
• Use FSCs to filter out unrelated components and focus on only those that meet functional and dimensional specifications.
• Locate interchangeable or alternate parts within the same class, which is helpful when dealing with obsolete or long lead-time items.
• Search for compatible components across multiple vendors, as many databases and supplier catalogs are indexed by FSCs.

Best Practices for Sourcing with the FSC System

To maximize the effectiveness of this system in your procurement endeavors, consider the following sourcing practices:

• Always use verified tools: Reference the latest edition of the H2 Federal Supply Classification Handbook or official online resources to be sure you are working with current, accurate FSCs and FSGs.
• Cross-reference FSCs with the part’s intended function and platform: Even within the same class, some parts may be system-specific or designed to interface with particular equipment models.
• Work with knowledgeable suppliers: Partnering with certified distributors who understand NSN sourcing and classification standards can streamline acquisition, reduce lead times, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Take Advantage of a Purchasing Platform that Offers Swift Access to NSN Parts

Mastering the use of NSNs, FSGs, and FSCs is the first step in simplified procurement; the next step is to utilize a dependable procurement source. ASAP Semiconductor is proud to present a wide range of high-quality NSN parts, FSC-classified components, and FSG-identified products through our website ASAP Distribution. With thousands of ready-to-purchase options from trusted manufacturers and our dedicated customer service, this platform reduces the complexity of sourcing and fulfillment whether you are seeking aerospace components, military-grade hardware, or general federal supply items. If you are ready to experience our competitive and curated procurement solutions firsthand, be sure to get in touch with our experts at your convenience.

1. jennifer oberg
2. Posted on September 24, 2019
aviation news

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