326140 - Polystyrene Foam Product Manufacturing
When it comes to the manufacturing of lightweight, versatile foam products, NAICS code 326140 plays a crucial role in defining the businesses that contribute to this niche sector. From protective packaging to building insulation, polystyrene foam products are embedded in countless industry applications. Understanding this NAICS classification is essential for manufacturers, contractors, and businesses looking to navigate the manufacturing sector and government procurement opportunities.
What is NAICS Code 326140?
NAICS Code 326140 — Polystyrene Foam Product Manufacturing describes establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing products made from polystyrene foam. These products include foam packaging materials, molded foam items, and insulation sheets, which serve vital roles in packaging, construction, and consumer goods industries.
Sector & Industry Scope
- Sector: Manufacturing
- Industry Focus: Producing polystyrene foam products such as:
- Foam packaging materials
- Insulation boards
- Molded foam products (cups, plates, coolers, food containers)
- Cushions and thermal insulation
This sector supports a broad range of industries including food service, electronics, construction, and shipping.
Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 326140
Businesses falling under NAICS 326140 are involved in:
- Polystyrene foam packaging manufacturing
- Foam insulation product manufacturing
- Molded polystyrene foam product manufacturing
These activities encompass producing:
- Protective shipping pads
- Foam coolers and ice chests
- Polystyrene foam cups, plates, and dinnerware
- Insulation sheets and cushioning products
Size Standards & Eligibility
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA):
- The size standard for NAICS 326140 is typically 1,000 employees.
- This means that businesses with 1,000 or fewer employees are considered small businesses under this classification, making them eligible for certain government contracting benefits and programs.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 326140
- Polystyrene foam packaging manufacturers: Specialize in producing shaped packaging materials for fragile goods and electronics.
- Foam insulation product manufacturers: Provide thermal insulation solutions for residential and commercial construction.
- Molded polystyrene foam product manufacturers: Create custom foam products like coolers, cups, and food containers for consumer markets.
Detailed Code Description Table
| Product / Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Coolers or Ice Chests, Polystyrene Foam, Manufacturing | Production of foam coolers and ice chests |
| Cups, Polystyrene Foam, Manufacturing | Manufacturing polystyrene foam cups |
| Dinnerware, Polystyrene Foam, Manufacturing | Production of foam plates, bowls, and plates |
| Foam Polystyrene Products Manufacturing | General manufacturing of foam products |
| Food Containers, Polystyrene Foam, Manufacturing | Creating foam containers for food |
| Ice Buckets, Polystyrene Foam, Manufacturing | Production of foam ice buckets |
| Ice Chests or Coolers, Polystyrene Foam, Manufacturing | Manufacturing foam ice chests or coolers |
| Insulation and Cushioning, Polystyrene Foam Plastics, Manufacturing | Producing foam insulation and cushioning |
| Jugs, Vacuum, Polystyrene Foam Plastics, Manufacturing | Manufacturing vacuum-formed foam jugs |
| Plates, Polystyrene Foam, Manufacturing | Foam plates production |
| Polystyrene Foam Packaging Manufacturing | Packaging materials made from polystyrene foam |
| Sheet (i.e., Board), Polystyrene Foam Insulation, Manufacturing | Production of foam insulation sheets |
| Shipping Pads and Shaped Cushioning, Polystyrene Foam, Manufacturing | Producing foam shipping pads and cushioning |
| Thermal Insulation, Polystyrene Foam, Manufacturing | Manufacturing thermal foam insulation products |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main uses of polystyrene foam products manufactured under NAICS 326140?
A: These products are primarily used for packaging fragile items, insulation in buildings, food service products like cups and plates, and consumer goods such as coolers.
Q: How large can a business be to qualify as a small business under this NAICS code?
A: Businesses with up to 1,000 employees meet the SBA size standard for small businesses under NAICS 326140.
Q: Can companies manufacturing other foam products (not polystyrene) fall under this NAICS code?
A: No, this NAICS code specifically covers manufacturing activities involving polystyrene foam products.
Q: Is NAICS 326140 limited to manufacturing in the United States?
A: NAICS is a North American industry classification system primarily used in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, but it is generally associated with entities operating within these countries.
Conclusion
NAICS code 326140 — Polystyrene Foam Product Manufacturing — is a key classification within the manufacturing sector that covers a wide array of essential foam products. Whether serving the packaging, construction, or consumer goods industries, companies under this code contribute significantly to the economy. Understanding this code and its implications helps businesses identify opportunities for contracting, compliance, and growth within the manufacturing ecosystem.
Optimize your business content and strategies by aligning with the NAICS code 326140 to tap into government contracts and industry networks focused on polystyrene foam manufacturing.
