33243 - Metal Can, Box, and Other Metal Container (Light Gauge) Manufacturing

In the vast world of manufacturing, NAICS Code 33243 stands out as a specialized yet vital industry sector. It encompasses the production of metal cans, boxes, and other light gauge metal containers, playing a crucial role in packaging solutions for food, beverages, and countless other products. Whether you're a business owner, government contractor, or simply interested in industrial classifications, understanding NAICS 33243 is essential.

What is NAICS Code 33243?

NAICS Code 33243 refers to the industry group involved in Metal Can, Box, and Other Metal Container (Light Gauge) Manufacturing. This classification covers establishments primarily engaged in fabricating metal containers made from light gauge metal sheets. These containers serve multiple markets — from food and beverage packaging to industrial supplies — ensuring product safety, durability, and ease of transport.

Sector: Manufacturing

NAICS 33243 falls under the Manufacturing sector, specifically within the broader Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing subsector (NAICS 332), highlighting its integral role in producing essential metal packaging solutions.

Typical Business Activities under NAICS 33243

Businesses classified under this NAICS code typically engage in one or more of the following activities:

• Metal Can Manufacturing: Producing various types of cans for food, beverage, paint, and aerosol products.
• Metal Box Manufacturing: Fabricating metal boxes used for packaging, storage, and shipping.
• Light Gauge Metal Container Production: Manufacturing other fabricated metal containers such as trays, drums, or specialty packaging, made from thin sheet metals.

Small Business Size Standard for NAICS 33243

For federal contracting and eligibility purposes, the Small Business Administration (SBA) defines size standards for NAICS 33243 as:

• Maximum of 750 employees for the entire business (includes employees of affiliates).

This means companies with 750 or fewer employees typically qualify as small businesses under this industry classification, enabling access to small business set-aside contracts and other benefits.

Examples of Businesses Classified Under NAICS 33243

• ABC Metal Packaging Inc. — specializes in food-grade metal cans for canned vegetables and fruits.
• XYZ Boxes LLC — manufactures durable metal shipping boxes for electronics and fragile goods.
• Global Light Gauge Containers — produces aerosol canisters and decorative metal trays.

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NAICS Code 33243 Code Details

Attribute	Description
NAICS Code	33243
Industry Title	Metal Can, Box, and Other Metal Container (Light Gauge) Manufacturing
Sector	Manufacturing
Subsector	Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing (NAICS 332)
Description	Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing metal containers such as cans, boxes, and other light gauge metal containers. These containers are typically used for packaging food, beverages, and various other products.
Typical Business Types	Metal can manufacturing, Metal box manufacturing, Light gauge metal container production
Size Standard	750 employees (maximum)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What products are included under NAICS 33243?

This industry includes metal cans, boxes, trays, drums, and other light gauge metal containers typically used for packaging food, beverages, chemicals, and other goods.

How is "light gauge" metal defined?

"Light gauge" refers to thin metal sheets or strips that are easier to shape and form, commonly used in manufacturing containers that require both strength and lightweight characteristics.

What industries use products from NAICS 33243 manufacturers?

Key industries include food and beverage packaging, chemical packaging, aerosol products, industrial parts, and even consumer goods like decorative metal boxes.

How can businesses benefit from identifying as NAICS 33243?

Classification under NAICS 33243 can help businesses qualify for government contracts, understand market opportunities, and comply with industry reporting standards.

Where can I find more information about NAICS codes?

Official information is available on the U.S. Census Bureau NAICS website and the Small Business Administration (SBA) website.

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Final Thoughts

NAICS Code 33243 plays a pivotal role in the manufacturing landscape by supplying essential packaging solutions through metal cans, boxes, and other containers. Whether you are a manufacturer aiming to expand into government contracting or a buyer seeking reliable packaging suppliers, gaining a solid understanding of this NAICS code and its market scope is invaluable.

Leveraging this knowledge will help businesses align their operations with industry standards, access government opportunities, and stay ahead in the competitive manufacturing marketplace.

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Keywords: NAICS 33243, metal can manufacturing, metal box manufacturing, light gauge metal containers, manufacturing sector, small business size standard, metal container industry