4235 - Metal and Mineral (except Petroleum) Merchant Wholesalers

Introduction

If you’re exploring business opportunities or market research within the wholesale trade industry, understanding NAICS Code 4235 is essential. This specific classification focuses on Metal and Mineral (except Petroleum) Merchant Wholesalers, a vital segment that supports industries from manufacturing to construction. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, supplier, or government contractor, knowing the details of NAICS 4235 can unlock new insights and potential.

What is NAICS Code 4235?

NAICS Code 4235 encompasses establishments primarily engaged in the merchant wholesale distribution of metals and minerals, excluding petroleum products. These businesses act as key intermediaries, purchasing from producers and selling ferrous and nonferrous metals, metal ores, and other mineral commodities to manufacturers, fabricators, and other industrial businesses.

Key Highlights of NAICS 4235:

• Focuses on merchant wholesalers rather than direct manufacturing.
• Excludes petroleum and petroleum products to separate distinct market industries.
• Covers a wide range of metal types and mineral products critical to numerous economic sectors.

Sector Overview: Wholesale Trade

NAICS 4235 belongs to the broad Wholesale Trade sector, which is fundamental to the supply chain by linking producers and retailers or other buyers. Within this sector, businesses classified under 4235 specialize in metals and minerals, often carrying inventory and providing logistics services to their clientele.

Typical Business Activities in NAICS 4235:

• Wholesale distribution of ferrous metals (e.g., steel, iron).
• Wholesale distribution of nonferrous metals (e.g., copper, aluminum, zinc).
• Wholesale distribution of various metal ores and minerals.
• Acting as merchant wholesalers providing inventory management, order fulfillment, and supply chain services.

Size Standards for NAICS Code 4235

To understand eligibility for government contracts or small business programs, it’s important to know the size standards assigned by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA):

NAICS Code	Industry Title	Size Standard (Annual Receipts)
4235	Metal and Mineral (except Petroleum) Merchant Wholesalers	$41.5 million or fewer

Businesses with annual receipts under $41.5 million typically qualify as small entities under this NAICS code, making them eligible for certain small business benefits and programs.

Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 4235

Businesses classified under NAICS 4235 cover a diverse range of wholesale metal and mineral operations:

• Wholesale distributors of ferrous metals such as steel beams, sheets, and bars.
• Wholesale distributors of nonferrous metals including copper wiring, aluminum sheets, and zinc products.
• Wholesale distributors of metal ores and minerals like iron ore, bauxite, and other raw mineral commodities used in manufacturing processes.
• Specialty metal and mineral merchants serving automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing industries.

Detailed NAICS Code 4235 Table

Attribute	Description
NAICS Code	4235
Industry Title	Metal and Mineral (except Petroleum) Merchant Wholesalers
Sector	Wholesale Trade
Description	Establishments primarily engaged in the merchant wholesale distribution of metals and minerals excluding petroleum products
Primary Products	Ferrous metals, nonferrous metals, metal ores, minerals
Size Standard	$41.5 million in annual receipts
Typical Activities	Wholesale distribution, inventory management, supply chain services
Common Business Types	Ferrous metal wholesalers, nonferrous metal wholesalers, mineral wholesalers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What products are covered under NAICS Code 4235?

This code includes wholesale distribution of ferrous and nonferrous metals, metal ores, and other minerals, but excludes petroleum and petroleum products.

Who are the typical customers of businesses in this industry?

Customers are usually manufacturers, construction firms, fabricators, and other industrial buyers who require metals and minerals for their operations.

How do I know if my business qualifies as "small" under NAICS 4235?

If your business's annual receipts are $41.5 million or less, it typically qualifies as a small business under this NAICS code.

Can businesses dealing with petroleum products fall under this code?

No. Businesses dealing with petroleum products fall under different NAICS codes (such as 4247 for petroleum and petroleum products).

Where can I find opportunities for contracts related to NAICS 4235?

Government contract opportunities for this code can be explored on platforms like SAM.gov, and businesses can leverage SBA resources for assistance.

Conclusion

NAICS Code 4235 represents an important segment in the wholesale trade sector, facilitating the movement of essential metals and minerals across industries. Whether you're a supplier, buyer, or government contractor, understanding this NAICS classification can help you identify relevant business prospects and comply with regulatory standards. Stay informed about size standards and industry specifics to maximize your success in the metal and mineral wholesale marketplace.

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