48211 - Rail Transportation
The transportation sector is a vital component of the U.S. economy, and rail transportation plays a key role in moving goods and passengers efficiently across the country. If you're involved in the operation of railroads or related services, understanding NAICS code 48211 - Rail Transportation is essential. This code helps businesses identify their classification for government contracting, compliance, and industry analysis.
What is NAICS Code 48211?
NAICS code 48211 falls under the broader Transportation and Warehousing sector, specifically focusing on Rail Transportation. This code encompasses businesses and operations involved in:
- Operating railroads
- Transporting freight by rail
- Providing passenger rail services
- Maintaining rail infrastructure
Whether you're running a freight railroad company or managing passenger rail services, this NAICS classification is relevant to your business.
Sector: Transportation and Warehousing
NAICS 48211 is part of the larger Sector 48-49 - Transportation and Warehousing, which includes a variety of industries dedicated to moving people and goods.
Typical activities covered in NAICS 48211 include:
- Freight Railroads: Moving bulk commodities, raw materials, and finished goods over long distances.
- Passenger Rail Services: Providing commuter, intercity, and regional passenger rail transport.
- Rail Infrastructure Maintenance: Maintaining and repairing the physical rail assets such as tracks, signals, and stations.
Size Standards for NAICS 48211 Eligibility
For government contracting and small business classifications, the Small Business Administration (SBA) defines size standards based on employee count:
| NAICS Code | Industry Title | Size Standard (Employees) |
|---|---|---|
| 48211 | Rail Transportation | 1,500 employees |
A business is considered small under NAICS 48211 if it has 1,500 or fewer employees.
Examples of Businesses under NAICS 48211
Businesses typically classified under NAICS 48211 include:
- Freight Railroad Operators: Companies transporting coal, chemicals, consumer goods, automotive products, etc.
- Intercity Passenger Rail Services: Operators like Amtrak or private regional passenger rail providers.
- Rail Line Maintenance Contractors: Companies specializing in track repair, signal installation, and rail yard maintenance.
These companies not only operate trains but may also be involved in logistics, scheduling, and infrastructure upkeep crucial for the smooth transport of goods and passengers.
NAICS Code 48211 Code Details Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 48211 |
| Title | Rail Transportation |
| Sector | Transportation and Warehousing |
| Description | Operation of railroads and transportation of passengers and freight by rail, including freight transport, passenger rail service, and rail infrastructure maintenance |
| Typical Business Types | Freight Railroads, Passenger Rail Services, Rail Infrastructure Maintenance |
| SBA Size Standard | 1,500 employees |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about NAICS 48211
Q1: What types of rail services are included under NAICS 48211?
A1: NAICS 48211 includes freight railroads transporting goods, passenger rail services like commuter and intercity trains, and companies involved in rail infrastructure maintenance.
Q2: Can small businesses qualify under NAICS 48211?
A2: Yes, a business with 1,500 or fewer employees is considered small under the SBA size standards for this NAICS code.
Q3: Is track maintenance part of NAICS 48211?
A3: Yes, rail infrastructure maintenance, including track repair and signaling, falls under NAICS 48211.
Q4: How does NAICS 48211 differ from other rail-related NAICS codes?
A4: NAICS 48211 specifically covers general rail transportation and infrastructure maintenance, whereas other codes may focus on specialized rail services or equipment manufacturing.
Conclusion
NAICS code 48211 - Rail Transportation is a critical classification for companies engaged in operating railroads and transporting freight and passengers by rail. Understanding this code helps businesses accurately identify their industry sector, comply with government regulations, and pursue contracting opportunities.
Whether you manage freight operations, offer passenger rail services, or maintain rail infrastructure, aligning your business under NAICS 48211 can position you competitively in the transportation industry.
Optimize your government contracting experience by knowing the details of your NAICS code. Rail Transportation is more than just moving trains – it’s about connecting communities and powering the economy.
