4247 - Petroleum and Petroleum Products Merchant Wholesalers

When navigating the vast landscape of U.S. industry classifications, NAICS code 4247 stands out as a critical sector within the Wholesale Trade industry. This code specifically covers businesses involved in the distribution of petroleum and petroleum-based products—an essential part of the nation’s economy and energy infrastructure. Whether you're a business owner, government contractor, or industry analyst, understanding NAICS 4247 is key to identifying market opportunities and compliance requirements in the petroleum wholesale sector.

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What is NAICS Code 4247?

NAICS 4247, titled Petroleum and Petroleum Products Merchant Wholesalers, comprises establishments primarily engaged in merchant wholesale distribution of petroleum products. These products include:

• Gasoline
• Lubricating oils
• Fuel oils
• Other related petroleum-based products

Typically, these wholesalers sell large quantities of petroleum goods to retailers, industrial users, and commercial customers rather than individual consumers.

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Sector Overview: Wholesale Trade

NAICS 4247 is part of the broader Wholesale Trade sector, which facilitates the distribution of goods from producers to various end users through wholesale channels. This sector plays a vital role in the supply chain, especially for energy-related commodities vital for transportation, manufacturing, and heating.

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Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 4247

Businesses classified under this NAICS code commonly engage in:

• Distributing gasoline to gas stations and retail outlets
• Wholesaling lubricating oils to automotive shops, factories, and other commercial users
• Selling fuel oils in bulk to residential, commercial, or industrial users
• Handling storage, transportation, and logistics related to petroleum product distribution

Examples of Business Types:

• Gasoline Distributors
• Lubricating Oil Wholesalers
• Fuel Oil Wholesalers

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NAICS Code 4247 Size Standards for Eligibility

To qualify as a small business under NAICS 4247 (which can be crucial for federal contracts and SBA programs), companies are generally assessed based on their average annual receipts.

• Small Business Size Standard: Typically, the threshold is $36.5 million or less in average annual receipts.

Checking current SBA standards is recommended, as thresholds may vary with policy updates.

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NAICS Code 4247 Details Table

Element	Description
NAICS Code	4247
Title	Petroleum and Petroleum Products Merchant Wholesalers
Sector	Wholesale Trade
Industry Description	Establishments engaged primarily in wholesale distribution of gasoline, lubricating oils, fuel oils, and related products.
Typical Activities	Gasoline distribution, lubricating oil wholesale, fuel oil distribution
Primary Customers	Retailers, industrial users, commercial customers
Small Business Size Standard	Average annual receipts of $36.5 million or less (subject to SBA updates)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of products are included under NAICS 4247?

This NAICS code covers gasoline, lubricating oils, fuel oils, diesel fuel, kerosene, and various other petroleum products typically sold in bulk.

Do companies selling directly to consumers fall under this code?

No. NAICS 4247 applies to merchant wholesalers, meaning those selling predominantly to retailers, commercial users, or industrial customers—not directly to end consumers.

How can I verify if my business qualifies as a small business under NAICS 4247?

Consult the latest Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards, which commonly set the threshold at $36.5 million average annual receipts for this industry.

Is transportation included in this code’s scope?

While some wholesalers manage logistics and transportation, the primary activity must be wholesale distribution. Establishments focused mainly on transportation fall under different NAICS codes.

Can businesses that refine petroleum products be classified under this code?

No. Refining and production are separate industries classified elsewhere. NAICS 4247 is strictly for merchant wholesalers.

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Final Thoughts

NAICS code 4247 plays a pivotal role in the energy supply chain, supporting industries and consumers by efficiently distributing petroleum products across the nation. For businesses operating or seeking opportunities in petroleum wholesale trade, understanding this NAICS code is essential for regulatory compliance, market identification, and leveraging government contracting programs.

Stay informed, leverage the correct classifications, and position your business effectively within the petroleum and petroleum products wholesale industry.

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Keywords: NAICS 4247, Petroleum and Petroleum Products Merchant Wholesalers, Petroleum wholesalers, Gasoline distributors, Lubricating oil wholesalers, Fuel oil wholesalers, Wholesale trade, NAICS code, Small business size standards