NAICS Codes
What is a NAICS code?
NAICS stands for North American Industry Classification System. NAICS codes are a type of industry code used to describe an industry. NAICS codes are made up of 6 digits.
NAICS codes look like this:
Things to keep in mind when looking for NAICS codes:
- There may not be a NAICS code to describe every industry. If you don't find a NAICS code that describes your industry, you can still search for information using keywords.
- For example, the terms fitness center, gym, exercise center, and athletic club can all be used to describe a place where people go to work out. If you search a business database for the term "fitness center," you may miss sources that use one of the other terms to describe the same concept.
- The industry in which a company operates (particularly those companies with more than one line of business) may be described by multiple NAICS codes. Choose the code(s) that you think best match the industry, and see if the search results match what you're looking for.
Source: NAICS Tutorial
Finding NAICS codes
To find a NAICS code, start with the U.S. Census Bureau’s NAICS website.
- Use the search box marked 2017 NAICS and type in a keyword to find the 6 digit code. For example: coffee or fitness center.
- The result page will show you a list of codes for you to use related to what you typed into the search box.
- Write the code down so you can use it to search the library databases.
Databases to use with NAICS codes
- IBISWorldType your NAICS code into the search box to find the Industry report associated with it.
Once in the report, click on the 'Major Companies' to get a list of companies associated with this code and 'Key Statitistics' to get data/numbers. - Mergent IntellectClick on to the 'First Research' icon underneath the search box and enter your DU email.
Enter your NAICS code and look for the report on the result list.
If you are looking for companies associated with a NAICS code, click on 'Industry' under the search box, type in your NAICS code and hit search. - Gale Business: InsightsFrom the dropdown menu next to the search box, select 'Industry'.
Type in your NAICS code and hit search.
Select the report from the list.
This database will also provide you will a list of companies associated with the NAICS code you entered. - Mergent OnlineFind companies by NAICS codes under the 'Classification Search' box.
Either enter a code or use the 'lookup' link to find one.
Converting Codes
- NAICS to SIC Code ConversionEnter a Keyword or NAICS Code in the search box above to find the corresponding SIC Code.