33271 - Machine Shops

When it comes to precision manufacturing and custom metal fabrication, NAICS code 33271 stands at the forefront. This code is essential for businesses and government agencies focused on machining metal and plastic parts, a cornerstone of the manufacturing sector. Whether you’re a business owner looking to classify your company or a government contractor seeking eligible vendors, understanding NAICS 33271 is crucial.

What is NAICS Code 33271?

NAICS code 33271 – Machine Shops represents establishments primarily engaged in machining metal and plastic parts. These businesses use specialized machine tools such as:

• Lathes
• Milling machines
• Grinders

to produce finished products or components with high precision. The focus is on creating custom parts from raw materials, often for industries ranging from aerospace to automotive and beyond.

Sector: Manufacturing

This NAICS code falls under the broader Manufacturing sector, specifically within the fabricated metal product manufacturing subsector. Machine shops play a critical role by transforming metal and plastic materials into finished tools, components, or assemblies used in a wide array of products.

Typical Business Types and Activities

Businesses classified under NAICS 33271 typically engage in:

• Custom Metal Part Fabrication
  Creating bespoke metal parts designed to client specifications.

• Precision Machining Services
  High-tolerance machining for industries like aerospace, medical devices, and electronics.

• Tool and Die Making
  Manufacturing dies, molds, and specialized tools essential for mass production.

These activities require skilled labor and advanced equipment, making machine shops indispensable in supply chains where precision and quality are paramount.

Size Standards for NAICS 33271

To qualify as a small business under NAICS 33271 for government contracting purposes, establishments must not exceed:

• 1,250 employees (including affiliates)

This size standard helps businesses understand eligibility for small business programs and set competitive expectations in government contracting.

---

NAICS Code 33271 Details Table

Attribute	Details
NAICS Code	33271
Title	Machine Shops
Sector	Manufacturing
Description	Establishments primarily engaged in machining metal and plastic parts using lathes, milling machines, grinders, etc.
Typical Business Activities	Custom metal fabrication, precision machining, tool and die making
Employee Size Standard	1,250 employees
Industry Subsectors	Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
Keywords	machine shops, precision machining, custom metal parts, tool and die making

---

FAQs About NAICS Code 33271

Q: What industries rely on machine shops classified under NAICS 33271?
A: Industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical devices, electronics, and heavy machinery frequently outsource or operate machine shops for precise components manufacturing.

Q: Can plastic parts be machined under this NAICS code?
A: Yes, NAICS 33271 includes machining of both metal and plastic parts to create finished products or components.

Q: How do I know if my business fits under NAICS 33271?
A: If your establishment primarily engages in machining parts using machine tools like lathes or milling machines—whether for custom orders or production—you likely fall under this classification.

Q: Is there a difference between machine shops and tool and die makers?
A: Tool and die making is a specialized form of machining focused on producing molds, dies, and tools. Both fall under NAICS 33271 but represent different service focuses within the same industry code.

Q: What is the maximum employee size to qualify as a small business under NAICS 33271?
A: 1,250 employees, including affiliates.

---

Understanding NAICS code 33271 is vital for those operating in or contracting with the manufacturing sector’s machine shop industry. From custom metal part fabrication to precision machining and tool and die making, businesses in this field are key players in producing the components that keep modern industries moving forward.

For small businesses looking to break into government contracting or partners seeking machine shop services, mastering the details of NAICS 33271 can unlock new opportunities and streamline procurement processes.