315120 - Apparel Knitting Mills
If you're exploring the manufacturing industry or seeking government contracting opportunities, understanding NAICS Code 315120 - Apparel Knitting Mills is essential. This specific classification is vital within the textile and apparel manufacturing sector, focusing on knitted apparel fabrics and related products. Whether you're an entrepreneur, supplier, or industry analyst, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about NAICS 315120.
What is NAICS Code 315120?
NAICS Code 315120, titled Apparel Knitting Mills, encompasses establishments primarily engaged in knitting apparel fabrics and manufacturing finished knitted apparel products. These include sweaters, hosiery, and other knitted garments. Apparel knitting mills typically produce the knitted fabrics used in various clothing items, serving as a critical link in the apparel manufacturing supply chain.
Sector and Business Activities
Sector: Manufacturing
As part of the manufacturing sector, Apparel Knitting Mills are specialized facilities that use knitting technology and expertise to produce high-quality knitted fabrics and garments. The focus lies in integrated knitting and finishing processes that result in finished apparel products ready for retail or further customization.
Typical Business Activities Include:
- Sweater manufacturing
- Hosiery production (e.g., socks, tights, stockings)
- Knitted apparel fabric production
- Production of athletic clothing and socks
- Manufacturing of bathrobes, dresses, and other knitwear
- Fabricating foundation garments such as girdles
- Producing outerwear and underwear by knitting methods
Small Business Size Standard
For government contracting and eligibility purposes, the size standard for NAICS code 315120 is 850 employees. Companies at or below this number qualify as small businesses under this code, which can be advantageous when pursuing federal contracts or small business certifications.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 315120
- Sweater manufacturers that knit and finish sweaters for all age groups.
- Hosiery producers manufacturing sheer, nylon, and athletic socks.
- Apparel knitting mills specializing in athletic wear, bathrobes, and knit gloves.
- Firms producing knit foundation garments like briefs, panties, and girdles.
- Manufacturers of knit outerwear and casual clothing including T-shirts, polos, and joggers.
Detailed Code Description: Products & Activities
| Product/Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Anklets, sheer hosiery or socks | Knitting or knitting and finishing |
| Athletic clothing and socks | Manufacturing of athletic wear and socks |
| Bathing suits, bathrobes, beachwear | Apparel made in apparel knitting mills |
| Blouses, chemises, dresses | Knitted garments including ensemble dresses |
| Boys' and children's socks | Manufacturing of various sock types |
| Gloves, mittens, knit gloves | Knit handwear manufacturing |
| Hosiery (sheer, nylon, women's, girls', infants') | Knitting and finishing hosiery products |
| Jackets, jogging suits, leotards | Apparel knitting mills produce these garments |
| Men's socks and slipper socks | Various knitting and finishing processes |
| Nightwear (nightgowns, nightshirts, negligees) | Made in apparel knitting mills |
| Pajamas, pants (athletic & outerwear), skirts | Knit apparel production |
| Sweaters, sweater jackets, sweater vests | Primary knitted apparel items |
| T-shirts (outerwear and underwear) | Knitting mills manufacture both types |
| Uniforms (nontailored), union suits | Specialized knitwear for uniform markets |
| Work gloves and mittens | Knit protective handwear |
(The full list of products manufactured under NAICS 315120 is extensive, covering nearly all knitted apparel categories.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What industries are covered under NAICS 315120?
This code includes establishments primarily involved in knitting fabrics and producing knitted apparel such as sweaters, hosiery, athletic wear, and other knitted garments.
How many employees define a small business under NAICS 315120?
The size standard is 850 employees or fewer, qualifying such companies as small businesses for government contracting.
Can companies only knitting apparel fabrics fall under this code?
Yes, both companies knitting fabrics and those manufacturing finished knitted garments belong to NAICS 315120.
Are hosiery mills considered apparel knitting mills?
Yes, hosiery production, including socks and tights, is a significant part of this NAICS code.
What type of government contracts might require NAICS 315120?
Contracts for supplying knitted apparel to military, government agencies, or uniform providers often require businesses under this code.
Conclusion
NAICS Code 315120 - Apparel Knitting Mills plays a crucial role in the manufacturing sector by producing knitted fabrics and apparel products vital to the clothing industry. Understanding this classification allows businesses to identify market opportunities, comply with industry regulations, and maximize eligibility for government programs. Whether you're involved in sweater manufacturing, hosiery production, or specialized knitwear, NAICS 315120 provides the framework to categorize and grow your enterprise in the apparel manufacturing landscape.
Unlock the full potential of your apparel knitting business by leveraging the insights from NAICS Code 315120. Stay informed, stay competitive!
