INC (Item Name Code) Information

Item Name Code (INC)

Item Name Codes (INCs) play a vital role in the NATO Stock Number (NSN) system, providing a standardized method for identifying and classifying Approved Item Names. This guide offers an in-depth understanding of INCs, their importance, and their role in the NATO Stock Number system.

What Are Item Name Codes (INCs)?

Item Name Codes (INCs) are unique identifiers assigned to military items and equipment within the NATO Stock Number (NSN) system, serving to group items together that have similar physical and functional characteristics. INCs play a critical role in military asset management by facilitating accurate identification and tracking, enabling the standardized classification and identification of military items and equipment to streamline tracking and inventory management processes. Additionally, they promote effective communication and collaboration among NATO members and partners by providing a shared language for identifying and procuring military items and equipment.

Every item name within the NATO Codification System is provided with an Item Name Code, meaning that every approved item name has its own unique identifier. If an item is not approved, it is simply assigned code 77777. INCs are related to the NATO Supply Group and NATO Supply Class of an item as well, meaning that each NATO Supply Class has a list of allowed INCs.