483 - Water Transportation

The transportation industry plays a crucial role in global commerce, and within this vast sector, NAICS Code 483 stands out as the key classification for water-based transportation services. Whether you're a government contractor, business owner, or researcher, understanding NAICS Code 483 - Water Transportation is essential to navigating opportunities tied to the movement of passengers and cargo over water.

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What is NAICS Code 483?

NAICS Code 483, titled Water Transportation, encompasses establishments primarily engaged in transporting passengers or cargo over various waterways. This classification includes services offered on the open sea, coastal routes, inland rivers, and ferry systems.

Key Aspects:

• Focused on waterborne transportation of goods and people.
• Covers different types of vessels and operational environments.
• Bridges key geographic points via water, contributing to domestic and international trade.

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Sector Overview: Transportation and Warehousing

NAICS Code 483 is part of the broader Transportation and Warehousing sector, a vital component of the economy responsible for moving goods and passengers efficiently.

Typical Business Activities under NAICS 483:

• Deep Sea Freight Shipping: Transporting cargo over international waters using large container or bulk ships.
• Ferry Services: Moving passengers and vehicles across water bodies like rivers, bays, or narrow seas.
• Inland Water Freight Transportation: Hauling goods via inland waterways such as rivers and canals using barges and towboats.

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Size Standards for NAICS Code 483 Eligibility

Understanding the Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards helps businesses determine eligibility for federal contracting programs under NAICS Code 483.

Type of Business	Size Standard (Number of Employees)
Deep Sea Freight Transportation	1,500 employees
Coastal and Great Lakes Freight	1,500 employees
Inland Water Freight Transportation	1,500 employees
Passenger Water Transportation	1,500 employees
Ferry Services	1,500 employees

Note: Size standards may vary based on specific subcategories; always consult the latest SBA guidelines.

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Examples of Businesses Under NAICS Code 483

• Maersk Line: A global leader in deep sea freight shipping.
• Washington State Ferries: One of the largest ferry operators in the U.S. providing passenger and vehicle transport.
• Inland Marine Freight Companies: Businesses operating barge fleets on the Mississippi River.

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NAICS Code 483 Code Details

NAICS Code	Title	Description	Sector
483	Water Transportation	Establishments primarily engaged in transportation of passengers or cargo over water via various watercraft	Transportation and Warehousing

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About NAICS Code 483

What types of vessels are included under NAICS Code 483?

NAICS 483 includes all vessels used for waterborne transport such as container ships, bulk carriers, ferries, barges, and passenger boats.

Is NAICS 483 applicable to both domestic and international shipping?

Yes, it covers both domestic water transportation (inland and coastal) and international shipping services.

Can a company involved in shipbuilding be classified under NAICS 483?

No. Shipbuilding falls under a different NAICS code (336611 - Ship Building and Repairing).

How do size standards impact eligibility for government contracts?

Businesses that meet SBA size standards for NAICS 483 can qualify for small business programs and set-aside contracts in federal procurement.

Where can I check the most current size standards?

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) website provides up-to-date size standard information for all NAICS codes.

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Conclusion

NAICS Code 483 - Water Transportation is a foundational classification within the transportation sector, specifically addressing the critical movement of people and goods over water. Whether deep sea shipping, ferry operations, or inland water freight, businesses operating under this code are pivotal to connecting markets and facilitating commerce.

If your business operates vessels or provides waterborne logistics services, understanding NAICS 483 and its related requirements is vital for navigating contracting opportunities and regulatory compliance.

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Optimize your water transportation business strategy today by leveraging the insights from NAICS Code 483.