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    315210 - Cut and Sew Apparel Contractors

    The apparel manufacturing industry is vast and diverse, with numerous specialized processes and business models. One critical sector within this industry is NAICS Code 315210, representing Cut and Sew Apparel Contractors. This niche plays a vital role in transforming fabric and materials into finished garments — predominantly on a contract basis. If you're exploring opportunities in apparel manufacturing, understanding this NAICS code is essential for market insight, government contracting, and business classification.


    What is NAICS Code 315210?

    NAICS code 315210 covers establishments primarily engaged in cutting and sewing apparel from purchased fabric and other materials, typically under contract for other companies. Importantly, these contractors focus strictly on manufacturing services — they do not design or market the apparel themselves. Their core expertise lies in bringing pre-designed garments to life via skilled sewing and assembly.


    Sector and Typical Business Activities

    • Sector: Manufacturing
    • Industry Group: Apparel Manufacturing

    Businesses classified under NAICS 315210 are engaged in various contract-based apparel manufacturing operations such as:

    • Contract apparel manufacturing
    • Cut and sew garment production
    • Custom sewing services for clothing brands

    These contractors serve fashion brands, wholesalers, and retailers needing reliable manufacturing partners without internal sewing capacity.


    Size Standards for NAICS Code 315210

    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) sets the size standard for this industry at 750 employees for eligibility as a small business. This size cap is crucial for firms seeking government contracts or small business certifications under this NAICS code.


    Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 315210

    • Contract apparel manufacturing facilities producing uniforms or sportswear
    • Custom sewing shops handling fashion brand garment production
    • Specialized cut and sew firms crafting waterproof apparel or leather garments on demand
    • Manufacturers supplying service apparel (hospital, professional, industrial) without design functions

    NAICS Code 315210 — Detailed Code Description Table

    Code Description Classification
    Apparel cut and sew contractors Core activity
    Apparel trimmings and findings cut and sew apparel contractors Accessory manufacturing
    Apparel, fur, cut and sew apparel contractors Specialty materials
    Appliqueing on apparel Decoration process
    Aprons, waterproof (including rubberized fabric, plastics), cut and sew apparel contractors Protective apparel
    Athletic clothing cut and sew apparel contractors Sportswear manufacturing
    Baseball caps (except plastics) cut and sew apparel contractors Headwear production
    Bathing suits cut and sew apparel contractors Swimwear manufacturing
    Belts, apparel (e.g., fabric, leather, vinyl), cut and sew apparel contractors Accessories production
    Bridal dresses or gowns cut and sew apparel contractors Formal wear manufacturing
    Coats (e.g., tailored, fur, artificial leather, leather, sheep-lined), cut and sew apparel contractors Outerwear production
    Dress and semidress gloves cut and sew apparel contractors Glove manufacturing
    Firefighters' dress uniforms cut and sew apparel contractors Uniform manufacturing
    Jackets cut and sew apparel contractors Outerwear production
    Leather apparel (e.g., capes, coats, hats, jackets) cut and sew apparel contractors Specialty product manufacturing
    Medical service apparel cut and sew apparel contractors Service and professional apparel
    Military dress uniforms cut and sew apparel contractors Uniform manufacturing
    Pants (e.g., athletic, dress, leather, sweat, waterproof outerwear, work) cut and sew apparel contractors Diverse pants apparel manufacturing
    Raincoats (e.g., water resistant, waterproof, water-repellent) cut and sew apparel contractors Outerwear specialty
    Shirts, outerwear, cut and sew apparel contractors Casual and formal shirts
    Skirts cut and sew apparel contractors Lower garment production
    Suits (nontailored, tailored, work) cut and sew apparel contractors Business and workwear
    T-shirts, outerwear, cut and sew apparel contractors Casual apparel production
    Uniforms, band and team athletic cut and sew apparel contractors Specialty uniform manufacturing
    Work coats and jackets cut and sew apparel contractors Industrial and service apparel

    Note: This is a representative selection from the extensive list covered within NAICS 315210.


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What does NAICS 315210 specifically cover?

    It covers establishments engaged in cutting and sewing apparel from purchased fabric and other materials on a contract basis, excluding design and marketing activities.

    Which sector does NAICS 315210 belong to?

    It belongs to the Manufacturing sector, specifically within apparel manufacturing.

    What is the SBA size standard for NAICS 315210?

    The size standard is 750 employees to qualify as a small business.

    What types of garments are made by cut and sew apparel contractors?

    They produce a wide range including uniforms, athletic apparel, outerwear, formal wear, and specialized garments like waterproof coats and leather apparel.

    Can these contractors design apparel?

    No, their services are limited to manufacturing; designers and marketers engage separately.

    Are cut and sew apparel contractors eligible for government contracts?

    Yes, if they meet the SBA size standards and other regulatory requirements, they can pursue government contracts.


    Conclusion

    Understanding NAICS Code 315210 - Cut and Sew Apparel Contractors is crucial for anyone involved in apparel manufacturing, contracting, or government procurement. This code encapsulates the essential contract manufacturing services that turn fabric into finished garments for brands and businesses nationwide. Whether you're a business owner seeking to classify your operation or a buyer searching for manufacturing partners, knowing the specifics of NAICS 315210 empowers smart decision-making and compliance.


    Keywords: NAICS 315210, cut and sew apparel contractors, contract apparel manufacturing, custom sewing services, apparel manufacturing sector, SBA size standards, apparel production, garment manufacturing, government contracting.