457210 - Fuel Dealers
If you're involved in the retail trade of fuels, understanding the NAICS code 457210 - Fuel Dealers is essential for identifying your business classification, eligibility for government programs, and gaining a competitive edge. This code groups establishments primarily engaged in selling fuels like gasoline, diesel, heating oil, and other petroleum-based products either at retail locations or through direct delivery.
What is NAICS Code 457210?
NAICS Code 457210 is designated for Fuel Dealers — businesses mainly focused on retailing various types of fuel. These enterprises operate fuel stations or deliver fuels directly to end consumers. This classification plays a crucial role within the Retail Trade sector, helping define market niches, regulatory requirements, and eligibility details for programs like small business certifications.
Sector and Typical Business Activities
Sector:
- Retail Trade
Common Business Activities Include:
- Operating gasoline stations
- Delivering heating oil and fuel oil
- Selling propane or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
- Dispensing jet fuel through bulk stations
- Direct selling of alternative fuels and firewood
These activities may be performed through traditional retail outlets or via direct delivery services tailored to residential, commercial, or industrial customers.
Size Standards & Eligibility
For NAICS code 457210, the size standard to qualify as a small business is 100 employees or fewer. This benchmark is critical for businesses seeking federal contracts, loans, or assistance programs defined by the Small Business Administration (SBA).
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 457210
Businesses typically classified under this code include:
- Gasoline stations – retail outlets selling gasoline and diesel to consumers
- Heating oil delivery services – companies delivering heating oil directly to homes and businesses
- Propane fuel dealers – suppliers and distributors of propane and liquefied petroleum gas for residential, commercial, and industrial use
Detailed NAICS Code 457210 Classification Table
| Fuel Dealer Type | Description | Sales Method |
|---|---|---|
| Alternative fuels | Various non-traditional fuel types | Direct selling |
| Bottled gas dealers | Bottled gaseous fuels | Direct selling |
| Coal dealers | Retail coal suppliers | Direct selling |
| Firewood dealers | Firewood retail | Direct selling |
| Fuel oil (heating) dealers | Fuel oil for heating | Direct selling |
| Heating oil dealers | Heating oil supplier | Direct selling |
| Jet fuel bulk stations | Bulk jet fuel sales | Selling for consumption |
| Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) dealers | Propane and LPG sales | Direct selling |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What types of fuels are covered under NAICS 457210?
This code covers gasoline, diesel, heating oil, propane (LPG), coal, firewood, jet fuel, alternative fuels, and other petroleum products.
Are fuel delivery services included in this classification?
Yes, direct-to-customer fuel delivery, including heating oil and propane, falls under this NAICS code.
Is there a small business size limit for fuel dealers?
Indeed. Fuel dealers must have 100 or fewer employees to qualify as a small business under this NAICS category.
Can jet fuel bulk stations be classified here?
Yes. Jet fuel distributed in bulk for consumption is included within NAICS code 457210.
Does selling bottled gas qualify under this code?
Yes, bottled gas dealers engaged in direct sales are part of this classification.
Conclusion
NAICS code 457210 plays a significant role in organizing and classifying Fuel Dealers within the broader Retail Trade sector. Whether you operate a gasoline station or deliver heating oil and propane to customers, understanding this code is vital for compliance, eligibility for government programs, and business growth. Make sure your business activities align with this code to leverage benefits such as small business certifications and targeted market analysis.
Optimize your business strategy by accurately identifying your classification under NAICS 457210 - Fuel Dealers and stay informed about industry regulations and opportunities.
