NAICS Codes
What is a NAICS Code?
The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is the standard used by Federal agencies in Canada, Mexico and the United States to classify businesses based on their type of economic activity. The system uses a hierarchical coding structure which becomes more specific with each additional digit.
Image Source: IBISWorld
- Sector: 2-digit code
- Subsector: 3-digit code
- Industry Group: 4-digit code
- Industry: 5-digit code
- National Industry: 6-digit code
NAICS codes are particularly useful for conducting business research, and several library resources can be searched by the code.
How Do I Find a NAICS Code?
Preparing for Your Search
Identify and clearly define the industry of interest. Many industries are made up of a blend of small and large companies, and some large companies operate in multiple industries. Begin by brainstorming keywords - and think about related terms. Databases may use different terms for the same or similar industry.
Look up industry designation codes. Many business databases can be searched by NAICS (rhymes with 'snakes') or SIC code. Searching with these codes can help narrow in on sources about a particular industry. To identify a NAICS code, search for an industry or company in one of these sources:
- NAICS Search: Search for an industry using a keyword or 2-6 digit code
- IBISWorld NAICS Code Lookup: Search for an industry using a keyword or 2-6 digit code
- SIC Manual: Browse or search for an industry using a keyword or code
- Reference Solutions: Locate the NAICS code for a company on its industry profile
- Ward's Business Directory of U.S. Private and Public Companies: Locate the NAICS code for a company on its directory listing
