326 - Plastics and Rubber Products Manufacturing

Introduction

If you’re involved in the manufacturing sector, understanding NAICS Code 326 is essential for navigating government contracts, industry analysis, and business development. This code covers a dynamic and vital segment of the manufacturing industry focused on producing a wide array of plastics and rubber products. From packaging materials to tires, this sector plays a critical role across numerous industries such as automotive, construction, healthcare, and consumer goods.

What is NAICS Code 326?

NAICS Code 326 pertains to the Plastics and Rubber Products Manufacturing industry. This industry classification encompasses establishments primarily engaged in the manufacturing of plastics and rubber products through processes such as molding, extrusion, and forming. Whether it’s producing durable plastic pipes or resilient rubber tires, businesses under this code cater to diverse market needs with innovative material solutions.

Sector

• Sector: Manufacturing (NAICS Sector 31-33)

Detailed Description of NAICS Code 326

The Plastics and Rubber Products Manufacturing industry includes companies involved in:

• Producing plastic packaging materials including containers, bags, and wraps.
• Manufacturing plastic pipes and fittings used broadly in plumbing and industrial applications.
• Creating rubber products, such as tires, hoses, belts, and molded rubber parts.
• Forming extruded and molded plastic goods, ranging from consumer products to industrial components.

This industry is characterized by specialized manufacturing techniques involving both synthetic plastics and natural or synthetic rubber compounds.

Size Standards for NAICS Code 326

To qualify as a small business under NAICS 326 for government contracting purposes, the following Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards generally apply:

Industry Group	Size Standard (Number of Employees)
Plastics Product Manufacturing (subsector)	1,250 employees
Rubber Product Manufacturing (subsector)	1,000 employees

Note: These size standards are subject to periodic updates by the SBA.

Examples of Businesses Under NAICS Code 326

Typical businesses utilizing NAICS Code 326 include:

• Plastic Packaging Manufacturers: Companies producing plastic bottles, containers, films, and bags.
• Rubber Tire Producers: Manufacturers of automotive, aircraft, and heavy machinery tires.
• Producers of Plastic Pipes and Fittings: Businesses making PVC, HDPE pipes for water and gas transport, construction, and infrastructure.
• Molded or Extruded Plastic Products Manufacturers: Suppliers of custom plastic components and consumer goods.
• Rubber Hose and Belt Manufacturers: Companies focused on industrial and automotive hose and conveyor belts.

NAICS Code 326 Details Table

NAICS Code	Title	Sector	Description	Typical Business Activities	Size Standards (Employees)
326	Plastics and Rubber Products Manufacturing	Manufacturing	Manufacturing plastics and rubber products, including plastic packaging, pipes, rubber tires, and other molded or extruded products.	Plastic packaging manufacturers, rubber tire producers, producers of plastic pipes and fittings	1,000 - 1,250 depending on subsector

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About NAICS Code 326

What businesses are classified under NAICS 326?

Businesses primarily engaged in producing plastic and rubber products such as packaging materials, pipes, fittings, tires, hoses, belts, and molded plastic or rubber components.

How can knowing NAICS 326 help with government contracting?

Understanding your NAICS code helps identify relevant contract opportunities, ensures proper business classification, and assists in meeting size standard requirements for small business programs.

What is the sector for NAICS Code 326?

It falls under the Manufacturing sector (NAICS 31-33), focusing specifically on plastics and rubber product manufacturing.

What are the SBA size standards for this NAICS code?

Size standards typically range between 1,000 to 1,250 employees, varying by the specific subsector within the plastics and rubber product manufacturing industry.

Are companies making plastic medical devices part of NAICS 326?

Yes, if the primary activity is manufacturing plastic products such as medical device components. However, specific medical device manufacturing may also fall under other NAICS codes depending on the product.

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By thoroughly understanding NAICS Code 326: Plastics and Rubber Products Manufacturing, businesses can better align their production capabilities with industry standards, streamline government contracting efforts, and stay competitive in the manufacturing sector. Whether you produce plastic packaging or develop next-generation rubber tires, this classification is key to defining your niche in the manufacturing landscape.