---
title: Understanding Exact Match, Contains, and Starts With in Company Search
description: "When searching for a company by name, the match type you choose affects how broad or narrow the results may be. ## How each option works - Exact Match looks for the company name exactly as entered and is usually…"
url: "https://j-cred.co.za/zh/helpcenter/understanding-exact-match-contains-and-starts-with-in-company-search/"
updated: "2026-03-30"
category: "Real-Time Searches"
---

# Understanding Exact Match, Contains, and Starts With in Company Search

When searching for a company by name, the match type you choose affects how broad or narrow the results may be.

## How each option works

- Exact Match looks for the company name exactly as entered and is usually the most precise.
- Contains looks for records where the phrase appears anywhere within the company name.
- Starts With looks for records where the company name begins with the phrase entered.

**Tip:** Use the narrowest option that still matches the quality of information you have. This helps reduce unnecessary result clutter.

**Need help?** Email [support@kto.co.za](mailto:support@kto.co.za) or [support@j-cred.co.za](mailto:support@j-cred.co.za), call [+27 10 224 0589](tel:+27102240589) during 9AM to 5PM CAT, or log a clear support request with your Search ID and internal reference where applicable.