3261 - Plastics Product Manufacturing
When it comes to industries driving innovation and sustainability in modern manufacturing, NAICS code 3261 - Plastics Product Manufacturing stands out as a vital sector. This industry is essential for producing a wide variety of plastic goods used daily, from packaging materials to durable piping systems. Whether you're a business owner, government contractor, or industry analyst, understanding NAICS 3261 can help you navigate market opportunities and compliance requirements effectively.
What is NAICS Code 3261?
NAICS code 3261 covers establishments primarily engaged in the manufacturing of plastics products through processes such as molding, extruding, and forming raw plastic materials into usable finished goods. This industry transforms raw plastic resins into a vast array of products serving multiple sectors, including packaging, construction, automotive, and consumer goods.
Sector Overview: Manufacturing
- Sector: Manufacturing
- Plastics Product Manufacturing belongs to the larger manufacturing sector, which encompasses industries that transform raw materials into finished products.
- The production methods primarily involve shaping, fabricating, and assembling plastics using mechanical and chemical processes.
Typical Business Activities under NAICS 3261
Companies classified under NAICS 3261 engage in a variety of manufacturing activities including:
- Plastic packaging manufacturers: producing containers, bottles, caps, and wraps.
- Plastic pipe and fittings producers: creating piping systems for plumbing, industrial, and agricultural uses.
- Plastic film and sheet manufacturers: supplying raw plastic sheets and films for packaging, lamination, and protective coverings.
Other notable activities include manufacturing plastic parts for vehicles, electronics, and construction materials.
Size Standards for NAICS 3261
To determine small business eligibility for federal contracting and SBA programs, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides size standards based on annual receipts:
| NAICS Code | Industry Title | Size Standard (Annual Receipts) |
|---|---|---|
| 3261 | Plastics Product Manufacturing | $41.5 million |
Businesses with average annual receipts not exceeding $41.5 million typically qualify as small businesses under this code.
Examples of Businesses under NAICS 3261
- ABC Plastic Packaging Inc. – Specializes in blow-molded plastic containers for food products.
- GreenPipe Solutions – Manufactures sustainable plastic pipes and fittings for residential plumbing.
- SheetFlex Films – Produces biodegradable plastic films and sheets used in agricultural applications.
- Custom Plastic Components – Creates custom-molded plastic parts for automotive and electronics markets.
These business examples highlight the diversity within the plastics product manufacturing sector.
NAICS Code 3261 Details at a Glance
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 3261 |
| Industry Title | Plastics Product Manufacturing |
| Sector | Manufacturing |
| Primary Activities | Molding, extruding, forming plastics into finished products |
| Size Standard (SBA) | $41.5 million (annual receipts) |
| Typical Products | Plastic packaging, pipes, fittings, films, and sheets |
| Key Manufacturing Processes | Injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of products are included in NAICS code 3261?
NAICS 3261 includes plastic products such as packaging containers, pipes, fittings, films, sheets, and custom molded plastic parts for various industries.
Is NAICS 3261 exclusively for large manufacturers?
No. Businesses of all sizes can fall under NAICS 3261. The SBA size standard for this industry is $41.5 million in average annual receipts for small business classification.
How is NAICS 3261 different from other plastics-related codes?
NAICS 3261 focuses on finished plastics product manufacturing through processes like molding and extrusion, while other codes may cover raw resins production or recycling.
Can service firms fall under NAICS 3261?
No. NAICS 3261 is specific to manufacturing establishments, not service providers like plastic design consultants or plastic equipment maintenance firms.
Understanding NAICS code 3261 provides valuable insight into the substantial plastics manufacturing sector that underpins a large part of the U.S. economy. Whether you are seeking government contracts, starting a plastics manufacturing business, or exploring industrial market trends, knowing the scope, standards, and examples within this code is essential.
Stay informed and leverage this knowledge to tap into the promising opportunities within Plastics Product Manufacturing under NAICS 3261.
