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    3117 - Seafood Product Preparation and Packaging

    When it comes to identifying industries within the manufacturing sector, NAICS code 3117 plays a vital role in defining the seafood processing industry. Whether you're a business owner, contractor, or researcher, understanding NAICS 3117 - Seafood Product Preparation and Packaging is essential for market research, government contracting, and regulatory compliance.

    What is NAICS Code 3117?

    NAICS code 3117 covers establishments primarily engaged in processing and packaging seafood products, including both fish and shellfish. These businesses prepare seafood for wholesale or retail distribution through activities such as cleaning, freezing, canning, and packaging.

    Key Highlights:

    • Industry Focus: Seafood product processing and packaging
    • Primary Products: Fish and shellfish
    • Main Activities: Cleaning, freezing, canning, packaging

    Sector: Manufacturing

    NAICS 3117 falls under the broader Manufacturing sector (NAICS 31-33), which encompasses businesses that convert raw materials into finished goods on a large scale.

    Typical business activities under NAICS 3117 include:

    • Operating seafood canning plants
    • Running fish freezing and packaging facilities
    • Managing shellfish processing establishments

    Size Standards for Eligibility

    To qualify as a "small business" under NAICS 3117, the Small Business Administration (SBA) defines size standards generally based on the number of employees or annual receipts, which may vary by specific sub-industries:

    • Employee Size Standard: Typically ranges from 500 to 1,500 employees, depending on the subcategory.
    • Revenue Size Standard: Usually between $20 million to $38.5 million in average annual receipts.

    It's important for businesses to check the SBA’s size standards linked to specific contract opportunities.

    Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 3117

    Here are some typical examples of businesses operating under NAICS code 3117:

    • Seafood Canning Plants – Facilities that can fish and shellfish products.
    • Fish Freezing and Packaging Facilities – Businesses specializing in freezing and wrapping fish for distribution.
    • Shellfish Processing Establishments – Companies that shuck, clean, and package shellfish like oysters, clams, and crab.

    NAICS Code 3117 Details Table

    Item Description
    NAICS Code 3117
    Industry Title Seafood Product Preparation and Packaging
    Sector Manufacturing
    Primary Activities Cleaning, freezing, canning, packaging seafood products
    Products Made Processed fish, canned seafood, frozen fish, packaged shellfish
    Typical Business Types Seafood canning plants, fish freezing facilities, shellfish processors
    SBA Size Standard 500 - 1,500 employees or $20 million - $38.5 million annual receipts
    Distribution Channels Wholesale distribution, retail outlets

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    What types of seafood products are processed under NAICS 3117?

    NAICS 3117 covers all kinds of seafood including fish (salmon, tuna, cod) and shellfish (shrimp, crab, clams, oysters) that are cleaned, frozen, canned, and packaged.

    Is NAICS 3117 only related to seafood packaging?

    No. It encompasses both preparation (like cleaning and processing) and packaging targeted for wholesale or retail distribution.

    Which sector does NAICS 3117 belong to?

    It is part of the Manufacturing sector which involves transforming raw seafood into consumer-ready products.

    How can a business determine if it qualifies as a small business under NAICS 3117?

    They must refer to SBA size standards, which usually consider employee count or annual receipts. These standards may vary by specific product lines within seafood processing.

    Can NAICS 3117 help with government contracting opportunities?

    Yes. Using the proper NAICS code improves visibility and eligibility for federal, state, and local government seafood product contracts and grants.


    Understanding NAICS code 3117 is crucial for seafood processors and packagers looking to align with industry standards, secure government contracts, or explore market opportunities. This classification serves as a key reference point for businesses involved in the seafood manufacturing supply chain.

    Optimize your business operations today by leveraging the insights and standards of NAICS 3117 - Seafood Product Preparation and Packaging.