31621 - Footwear Manufacturing

When it comes to classifying industries in the manufacturing sector, NAICS code 31621 - Footwear Manufacturing plays a crucial role. This classification covers companies specializing in producing footwear like shoes, boots, and sandals. Whether you're a business owner seeking government contracts or simply interested in the industry, understanding this NAICS code is essential.

What is NAICS Code 31621?

NAICS 31621 refers to the industry involved in the manufacturing of footwear, which includes a wide range of products such as:

• Shoes (casual, formal, athletic)
• Boots (work, fashion, safety)
• Sandals (leather, rubber, synthetic)

The manufacturing process under this code involves several key activities like cutting, shaping, assembling, and finishing footwear using materials such as leather, rubber, plastics, and synthetic fabrics.

Sector Overview: Manufacturing

NAICS code 31621 belongs to the broader Manufacturing sector, specifically under:

• Sector: Manufacturing (NAICS 31-33)
• Subsector: Leather and Allied Product Manufacturing (NAICS 316)
• Industry Group: Footwear Manufacturing (NAICS 3162)

This sector is essential to the economy by providing durable, quality footwear products to consumer and industrial markets.

Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 31621

Businesses classified under this code typically engage in:

• Designing and producing footwear using diverse materials.
• Operating machinery for cutting and shaping raw materials.
• Assembling various shoe components (soles, uppers, linings).
• Applying finishing touches such as polishing, waterproofing, or branding.

Some common types of companies include:

• Shoe manufacturing companies
• Boot production facilities
• Sandal manufacturing businesses

Size Standards for NAICS Code 31621

To qualify as a small business under the Small Business Administration (SBA) standards for NAICS 31621, companies typically must not exceed:

• 150 employees

This size standard is crucial for businesses seeking SBA loans, government contracts, or other small business assistance programs.

Examples of Businesses in Footwear Manufacturing (NAICS 31621)

• Athletic shoe manufacturers producing specialized sports footwear.
• Work boot companies manufacturing safety boots for construction workers.
• Fashion footwear producers focusing on trendy shoes and sandals.
• Orthopedic shoe manufacturers catering to medical footwear needs.

NAICS Code 31621 Details Table

Attribute	Description
NAICS Code	31621
Industry Title	Footwear Manufacturing
Sector	Manufacturing (NAICS 31-33)
Primary Activities	Cutting, shaping, assembling, finishing footwear
Materials Used	Leather, rubber, synthetic materials
Typical Businesses	Shoe makers, boot manufacturers, sandal producers
SBA Small Business Size Standard	150 employees

FAQs About NAICS Code 31621 - Footwear Manufacturing

1. What products fall under NAICS code 31621?

NAICS 31621 covers manufacturing footwear such as shoes, boots, sandals, and other related protective or fashion footwear made from various materials.

2. Is custom footwear manufacturing included in this code?

Yes, custom and specialty footwear production are included as long as the primary business involves manufacturing footwear.

3. What is the significance of NAICS code 31621 for businesses?

This classification is used for government contracting, industry analysis, and eligibility for small business programs, grants, or loans.

4. Can businesses that only repair shoes fall under this code?

No, shoe repair or refurbishment typically falls under a different NAICS code specialized for repair services.

5. How can my footwear manufacturing business benefit from knowing its NAICS code?

Identifying the correct NAICS code allows your company to participate in relevant government procurement opportunities, understand market demographics, and comply with industry regulations.

---

Understanding NAICS code 31621 provides clarity and opportunity within the footwear manufacturing industry. Whether you're analyzing market trends, pursuing government contracts, or planning industry entry, mastering this code’s details can give you a competitive edge.