XL EaglePSC (Product and Service Code)
PSC stands for Product and Service Code. A Product and Service Code, or PSC, is a 4-character code that describes what the government is buying. Products use 4-digit numeric codes (these are the Federal Supply Classes). Services use a letter followed by three characters, such as S201 for custodial and janitorial services or S208 for landscaping and groundskeeping.
While a NAICS code describes the industry of the seller, the PSC describes the item or service bought. Every contract action reported to the government carries a PSC, so it is a powerful way to search past awards.
Why it matters to a small contractor
Searching past awards by PSC in USAspending or SAM.gov shows you which agencies buy your service, how often, and who has been winning. It is one of the best free market research tools you have.
Example
An HVAC contractor searches past awards under PSC J041 (maintenance and repair of refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment) in her state and finds three bases that recompete their service contracts every few years.
PSC: common questions
Do I list PSC codes in SAM registration?
SAM registration focuses on NAICS codes. PSC codes show up more in solicitations, award data, and some agency vendor profiles, so you may list them in your capability statement.
Where is the official PSC list?
GSA publishes the PSC Manual, available through Acquisition.gov and SAM.gov's data services. It explains each code and when to use it.
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