31512 - Apparel Knitting Mills

In the world of manufacturing, NAICS Code 31512, titled Apparel Knitting Mills, plays a critical role in producing a variety of knitted apparel products. From cozy socks to stylish hosiery, these mills form the backbone of the knitted garment industry. Whether you're a business owner, government contractor, or industry enthusiast, understanding this NAICS code is essential for navigating manufacturing sectors and compliance requirements.

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What is NAICS Code 31512 - Apparel Knitting Mills?

NAICS Code 31512 refers to establishments primarily engaged in knitting apparel fabrics and manufacturing finished knitted apparel products. These products include hosiery, socks, and other knitted garment types that are either ready for retail sale or further processing. Unlike general fabric mills, apparel knitting mills specialize specifically in producing knitted apparel items, combining both fabric creation and garment assembly.

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Sector and Business Activities Under NAICS 31512

NAICS Code 31512 falls within the broader Manufacturing sector. The sector encompasses various industries dedicated to producing goods through mechanical, physical, or chemical processes. This code specifically targets businesses engaged in the knit manufacturing process for apparel.

Typical Business Types and Activities

• Hosiery Manufacturing
• Sock Knitting Mills
• Production of Knitted Apparel (e.g., leggings, knitted hats, gloves)
• Finished knitted product assembly ready for sale or distribution

These businesses typically combine knitting, dyeing, and sewing operations to produce finished goods. The final products are often supplied to retailers, wholesalers, or further processing manufacturers.

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Size Standards for NAICS Code 31512

To determine eligibility for government programs like small business certifications or contracting opportunities, establishing the size standards for NAICS 31512 is crucial.

• Size Standard: 500 employees
• This means businesses classified under Apparel Knitting Mills with 500 or fewer employees qualify as small businesses under SBA standards.

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Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 31512

Here are some common examples of the types of businesses that fall under this code:

• Companies specializing in sock knitting and distribution
• Manufacturers producing hosiery and legwear
• Firms that knit and assemble knitted apparel such as gloves, scarves, and hats

Examples also include boutique apparel knitting mills servicing fashion brands or mass-market manufacturers supplying large retailers.

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NAICS Code 31512 - Apparel Knitting Mills: Code Details

Field	Description
NAICS Code	31512
Title	Apparel Knitting Mills
Sector	Manufacturing
Description	Establishments primarily engaged in knitting apparel fabrics and manufacturing finished knitted apparel products such as hosiery, socks, and other knitted garments.
Typical Business Types	Hosiery manufacturing, sock knitting mills, knitted apparel production
Size Standard	500 employees
Sub-industry Examples	Knitting hosiery, sock production, knitted gloves and hats

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About NAICS Code 31512

What types of products are made under NAICS 31512?

Apparel Knitting Mills produce garments such as hosiery, socks, gloves, scarves, and other knitted apparel items that are finished and ready for sale or further processing.

Is NAICS 31512 part of the manufacturing sector?

Yes, it falls under the Manufacturing sector, specifically within textile mills focused on knitting apparel fabrics and apparel.

What is the SBA size standard for Apparel Knitting Mills?

The SBA size standard is 500 employees, which qualifies businesses with up to this number of employees as a small business.

Can companies under this NAICS code apply for small business government contracts?

Yes, businesses meeting the SBA size standard can qualify for small business government contracting opportunities.

How does NAICS code 31512 differ from other knitting mills?

Unlike general textile or fabric knitting mills, 31512 focuses specifically on knitting apparel fabrics and producing finished apparel products like hosiery and socks.

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Conclusion

Understanding NAICS Code 31512 – Apparel Knitting Mills is vital for businesses operating in the apparel manufacturing industry, government contractors, and market analysts. It defines the scope of companies producing knitted apparel fabrics and finished products like socks and hosiery within the manufacturing sector. Staying informed about size standards and typical business activities ensures smoother navigation through regulatory and contracting environments.

Keywords: NAICS code 31512, Apparel Knitting Mills, hosiery manufacturing, sock knitting mills, knitted apparel production, manufacturing sector, SBA size standards, small business NAICS, knitted garments manufacturing.