NAICS Codes for Federal Contracting: A Small Business Guide
Choosing the right NAICS codes is one of the most important parts of SAM.gov registration. Your NAICS codes determine which federal contracts you can compete for and whether you qualify for small business set-asides.
In this guide, we'll explain what NAICS codes are, how to find them, and how to choose the right ones for your business.
Need Help Choosing NAICS Codes?
Our SAM.gov registration service includes NAICS code strategy for a flat fee of $599.
Get SAM.gov Registration HelpWhat Is a NAICS Code?
NAICS stands for North American Industry Classification System. It is the standard used by federal agencies to classify businesses based on the type of work they do.
Each NAICS code is a 6-digit number. Federal contracting officers use these codes to find vendors, set aside contracts, and determine small business size standards.
Why NAICS Codes Matter for Federal Contracting
Your NAICS codes affect your ability to win federal contracts in three ways:
- Visibility: Contracting officers search SAM.gov by NAICS code to find vendors.
- Eligibility: Set-aside contracts require specific NAICS codes.
- Size standards: Your small business size is determined by revenue or employee count based on your primary NAICS code.
How to Find Your NAICS Codes
The official NAICS lookup tool is available at census.gov/naics. You can search by keyword or browse by industry.
How to Search by Keyword
Enter the main product or service your business provides. For example, if you provide IT consulting, search for "computer systems design" or "IT consulting."
How to Browse by Industry Sector
NAICS organizes businesses into sectors. Start with the broad sector that matches your industry, then narrow down to the specific subsector that fits your work.
Common NAICS Codes for Federal Contractors
Here are examples of NAICS codes commonly used by federal contractors:
- 541511: Custom Computer Programming Services
- 541512: Computer Systems Design Services
- 541330: Engineering Services
- 541613: Marketing Consulting Services
- 561730: Landscaping Services
- 238220: Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors
- 541990: All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
How Many NAICS Codes Can You Have?
You can select multiple NAICS codes in SAM.gov. In fact, you should select every code that accurately describes the products or services your business offers. This increases your visibility for different types of federal contracts.
Primary NAICS Code vs Secondary NAICS Codes
Your primary NAICS code is the main type of work your business does. It determines your small business size standard.
Secondary NAICS codes describe additional products or services you offer. They help you show up in more contracting searches.
How to Choose the Right NAICS Codes
- List every product or service you currently sell or want to sell to the government.
- Find the NAICS code that best matches each product or service.
- Check the SBA size standard for each code.
- Select your primary NAICS code based on your largest or most important line of business.
- Add all relevant secondary NAICS codes.
Common NAICS Code Mistakes
- Choosing too few codes and missing opportunities
- Choosing codes that don't match your actual business
- Using the wrong primary NAICS code, which affects size standard
- Not reviewing codes annually when business changes
Get the Free SAM.gov Checklist
Make sure you have your NAICS codes ready before you start SAM.gov registration.
Download the Free ChecklistNAICS Codes and Small Business Size Standards
The SBA assigns size standards to each NAICS code. These standards determine whether your business qualifies as "small" for federal contracting purposes. Size standards are based on either:
- Average annual revenue over the past three years
- Average number of employees over the past 12 months
Your primary NAICS code determines which size standard applies to your business.
Frequently Asked Questions About NAICS Codes
Can I change my NAICS codes after registering in SAM.gov?
Yes. You can update your NAICS codes in your SAM.gov profile. It's a good idea to review them annually or whenever your business offerings change.
Do I need a NAICS code for every service I offer?
You should select every NAICS code that accurately describes a product or service you want to sell to the federal government.
What happens if I choose the wrong NAICS code?
Wrong NAICS codes can make your business invisible to contracting officers for the contracts you actually want. They can also affect your small business size determination.
Need Help With Your SAM.gov Registration?
Choosing NAICS codes is just one part of a successful SAM.gov registration. Contract Compliance Partners helps you select the right codes and complete your entire registration.
Done-for-You SAM.gov Registration — $599
- NAICS code strategy
- UEI and CAGE setup
- Accuracy review
- Most registrations submitted in 3–5 business days