457 - Gasoline Stations and Fuel Dealers
When it comes to understanding the landscape of retail businesses that fuel our daily commute and keep vehicles running smoothly, NAICS Code 457 stands out as a critical classification. Officially titled Gasoline Stations and Fuel Dealers, this code identifies establishments primarily engaged in the retailing of automotive fuels and related products. Whether you're a business owner, government contractor, or industry analyst, knowing the details behind NAICS 457 helps in market research, compliance, and identifying growth opportunities in the Retail Trade sector.
What is NAICS Code 457?
NAICS Code 457 represents businesses primarily involved in the retail sale of automotive fuels, such as gasoline and diesel, along with lubricants. Many of these establishments also provide additional services, including convenience store items and automotive maintenance services. Simply put, if you operate a gasoline station or fuel dealership, this is the NAICS code that applies.
Key Aspects Covered by NAICS 457:
- Retailing automotive fuels like gasoline, diesel, and propane
- Selling vehicle lubricants
- Operating convenience stores often attached to fuel pumps
- Providing automotive services related to fuel and lubrication
Sector Overview: Retail Trade
NAICS 457 is classified under the Retail Trade sector, which encompasses businesses that sell goods directly to consumers. This sector is essential to daily consumer activity and has a consistent demand due to the reliance on vehicles for personal and commercial use.
Typical Business Types in NAICS 457:
- Gasoline Stations: Primary sales of fuel for vehicles.
- Fuel Dealers: Distributors providing fuel to end customers or businesses.
- Convenience Stores with Fuel Pumps: Combining fuel retail with general retail products.
- Automotive Service Stations: Stations offering fuel plus basic vehicle maintenance.
Size Standards for NAICS Code 457
To qualify for small business programs and government contracting under NAICS 457, businesses must meet specific size standards based on annual revenue or number of employees. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) typically defines these limits.
| Criteria | Size Standard |
|---|---|
| Annual Receipts | $41.5 million or less |
| Number of Employees | Varies by sub-industry (typically not used for this NAICS) |
Note: Small business eligibility often depends on annual receipts rather than employee count for gasoline stations and fuel dealers.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 457
- Shell Gasoline Stations: Retail fuel outlets providing gasoline and diesel.
- Local Fuel Dealers: Independent distributors selling heating oil, diesel to farms and businesses.
- 7-Eleven Convenience Stores with Fuel Pumps: Retail convenience combined with automotive fuels.
- Marathon Gas Stations: Offering fuel sales plus quick-service convenience retail.
NAICS Code 457 Details Table
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 457 |
| Title | Gasoline Stations and Fuel Dealers |
| Sector | Retail Trade |
| Industry Description | Establishments engaged primarily in retailing automotive fuels and lubricants; may also provide convenience store items and automotive services |
| Primary Products | Gasoline, diesel fuel, lubricants, propane, convenience store goods |
| Size Standard | $41.5 million or less in annual receipts |
| Typical Businesses | Gasoline stations, fuel dealers, convenience stores with fuel pumps |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What businesses fall under NAICS Code 457?
Businesses primarily engaged in retailing automotive fuels (gasoline, diesel), lubricants, and often convenience store items with or without providing automotive services.
Is a convenience store without fuel pumps classified in NAICS 457?
No, convenience stores without fuel sales fall under a different NAICS code, typically in general retail trade.
What size standards apply to businesses in NAICS 457?
Generally, the SBA defines businesses with $41.5 million or less in annual receipts as small under this NAICS code.
Can fuel dealers who sell in bulk to businesses qualify under this NAICS?
Yes, fuel dealers who retail to commercial customers and end consumers are included in NAICS 457.
Which sector does NAICS 457 belong to?
It is part of the Retail Trade sector.
Conclusion
NAICS Code 457, Gasoline Stations and Fuel Dealers, is a vital classification within the retail trade sector, defining businesses that fuel vehicles and provide additional convenience through store items and automotive services. Understanding this code is essential for business owners, contractors, and policymakers who work within or alongside this industry. From small independent fuel dealers to nationwide gas station chains, NAICS 457 covers a wide array of business types with a clear size standard defined for small business programs.
If you are looking to classify your business or explore contracting opportunities, identifying the correct NAICS code like 457 is the first step toward success.
