XL EagleNAICS code (North American Industry Classification System code)
NAICS code stands for North American Industry Classification System code. NAICS codes are numbers used by the U.S., Canada and Mexico to classify businesses by industry. In federal contracting the 6-digit level matters, for example 561720 for janitorial services, 561730 for landscaping services, and 238220 for plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors.
Every federal solicitation is assigned one NAICS code by the contracting officer. That code decides which SBA size standard applies, which tells you whether your business counts as small for that bid. You list all the NAICS codes that fit your work in your SAM registration.
Why it matters to a small contractor
Picking the right NAICS codes helps buyers and primes find you, and it decides whether you qualify for small business set-asides. You can list many codes in SAM, so include every one that honestly describes work you do.
Example
A cleaning company lists 561720 (janitorial) and 561790 (other building services) in SAM. When a post-office cleaning job is posted under 561720, the owner checks the size standard and confirms she qualifies as small.
NAICS code: common questions
How do I find my NAICS code?
The Census Bureau's NAICS search lets you type a keyword like 'HVAC' and see matching codes. SBA's size standards table also lists each code with its small business limit.
Can I bid on a job with a NAICS code not in my SAM profile?
Generally yes, as long as you meet the size standard for that code and can do the work. It is still smart to add the code so your profile stays accurate.
Do NAICS codes ever change?
Yes. They are revised every five years, and SBA updates its size standards table to match. Old codes can be merged or split.
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