What is NAICS Search?

Learn how NAICS codes classify businesses, how they’re structured, and how SMB.co uses them to streamline your business search.

If you're exploring the world of small business buying or selling, you've likely encountered the term NAICS codes. Let's break down what they are and how they can assist you.

What is a NAICS Code?

NAICS stands for the North American Industry Classification System. It's a standardized system used by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico to classify businesses based on their primary activities. Think of it as a detailed library catalog for industries, ensuring everyone is on the same page when identifying and discussing different types of businesses.

For instance:

  • A bakery would have a NAICS code placing it under food services.
  • A software development firm would have a code under information technology.
  • A construction company would fall under construction services.

These codes help streamline data collection, analysis, and reporting across North America.

Structure of NAICS Codes

NAICS codes range from broad categories to very specific industries, using a 2 to 6-digit coding system:

  • 2-Digit Codes: Represent broad sectors.

  • Example: "23" = Construction

  • 3-Digit Codes: Drill down to subsectors.

  • Example: "236" = Construction of Buildings

  • 4-Digit Codes: Further detail into industry groups.

  • Example: "2362" = Nonresidential Building Construction

  • 5-Digit Codes: Specific industries.

  • Example: "23622" = Commercial and Institutional Building Construction

  • 6-Digit Codes: The most detailed level, specific to national industries.

  • Example: "236220" = Commercial and Institutional Building Construction

This hierarchical structure allows users to navigate from general sectors to specific industries with ease.

Top-Level NAICS Codes

Here are some of the primary 2-digit NAICS codes representing broad sectors:

  • 11: Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
  • 21: Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction
  • 22: Utilities
  • 23: Construction
  • 31-33: Manufacturing
  • 42: Wholesale Trade
  • 44-45: Retail Trade
  • 48-49: Transportation and Warehousing
  • 51: Information
  • 52: Finance and Insurance
  • 53: Real Estate and Rental and Leasing
  • 54: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
  • 55: Management of Companies and Enterprises
  • 56: Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services
  • 61: Educational Services
  • 62: Health Care and Social Assistance
  • 71: Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
  • 72: Accommodation and Food Services
  • 81: Other Services (except Public Administration)
  • 92: Public Administration

For a comprehensive list and more detailed breakdown, you can refer to the official NAICS website: https://www.census.gov/naics/

How SMB.co Utilizes NAICS Search

At SMB.co, we leverage NAICS codes to categorize businesses accurately. This system allows you to:

  • Efficiently Search: Filter businesses based on specific industries of interest.
  • Compare Opportunities: Assess similar businesses within the same industry group.
  • Gain Insights: Understand industry-specific trends and valuations.

By integrating NAICS codes into our platform, we ensure that your journey in buying or selling a business is as informed and streamlined as possible.

Any other questions?