485 - Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation
The transportation sector plays a critical role in the economy, connecting people and places efficiently and safely. NAICS code 485, titled Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation, is a vital classification for businesses that provide ground-based passenger transport services. Whether you operate an urban bus system or a limousine service, understanding NAICS 485 is essential for government contracting, compliance, and market research.
What is NAICS Code 485?
NAICS code 485 encompasses establishments primarily engaged in providing passenger transportation by bus, taxi, limousine, or other ground vehicles. This classification includes a broad range of transit services such as:
- Urban transit systems (city buses, subways)
- Interurban and rural bus transportation
- Specialized services including school buses and charter buses
- Taxi and limousine services
This code is part of the larger Transportation and Warehousing sector, reflecting its integral role in moving people rather than goods.
Sector Overview: Transportation and Warehousing
NAICS 485 falls under the Transportation and Warehousing sector, which covers industries involved in:
- Moving passengers and cargo
- Warehousing and storage
- Support activities for transportation
Specifically, NAICS 485 focuses on the movement of passengers by ground vehicles, emphasizing:
- Public transportation systems
- Private passenger transport services
- Scheduled and non-scheduled ground transit
Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 485
Businesses operating under NAICS 485 engage in diverse passenger transportation activities, such as:
- Urban Transit Systems: Operating city buses, streetcars, and subway trains that provide routine transportation within urban areas.
- Interurban and Rural Bus Transportation: Long-distance and regional bus services connecting towns and rural areas.
- Taxi and Limousine Services: On-demand passenger transport including taxis, limousines, and ride-hailing vehicles.
- Charter Bus Services: Providing buses for private, group, or event transportation.
- School Bus Transportation: Specialized transit services dedicated to safely transporting students.
Size Standards for NAICS Code 485 Eligibility
For government contracting and eligibility purposes, the small business size standards for NAICS 485 are typically based on average annual revenue or number of employees. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA):
| NAICS Code | Industry Title | Size Standard (Revenue) | Size Standard (Employees) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 485 | Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation | $41.5 million | 1,500 employees |
Note: Size standards may vary by specific sub-industry within 485. Always verify with the SBA for the most current thresholds when applying for contracts.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS Code 485
- City Transit Authorities: Agencies operating municipal bus and light rail services.
- Intercity Bus Operators: Companies like Greyhound or regional bus lines.
- Taxi Companies: Local taxi firms serving metropolitan areas.
- Limousine and Paratransit Providers: Businesses specializing in luxury or specialized passenger transport, including non-emergency medical transport.
- School Bus Contractors: Private companies managing school transportation contracts.
NAICS Code 485 Detailed Classification Table
| NAICS Code | Industry Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 485111 | Urban Transit Systems | Establishments providing scheduled services within metropolitan areas, including buses and subways |
| 485112 | Commuter Rail Systems | Passenger rail transport between metropolitan and suburban or rural areas |
| 485113 | Bus and Other Motor Vehicle Transit Systems | Other scheduled transit services not classified elsewhere |
| 485119 | Other Urban Transit Systems | Includes trolley bus, subway, and other urban transit not elsewhere classified |
| 485210 | Interurban and Rural Bus Transportation | Scheduled passenger bus transportation between urban centers and rural areas |
| 485310 | Taxi Services | Taxicab services |
| 485320 | Limousine Services | Ground passenger transportation by luxury vehicles |
| 485410 | School and Employee Bus Transportation | Scheduled transport services for schools and employees |
| 485510 | Charter Bus Industry | Non-scheduled passenger transport by bus |
| 485990 | Other Transit and Ground Passenger Transport | Other passenger ground transportation not classified elsewhere |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About NAICS Code 485
1. Why is NAICS code 485 important for government contracting?
NAICS code 485 identifies businesses eligible for specific government contracts and grants in the passenger transportation sector. It helps agencies and contractors match services to procurement opportunities.
2. Can a limousine service qualify under NAICS 485?
Yes, limousine services fall under subcategory 485320 as part of ground passenger transportation.
3. What types of vehicles are covered under NAICS 485?
This code covers buses, taxis, limousines, school buses, and other ground passenger vehicles.
4. Is ride-sharing included in NAICS 485?
Ride-sharing companies are generally classified under a different NAICS code (like 485999 - Specialized Freight Trucking, Local), but associated taxi and limousine services fall under NAICS 485.
5. How can I verify my business is classified correctly under NAICS 485?
Consult the official U.S. Census Bureau NAICS directory or use SBA’s Size Standards Tool to confirm classification and eligibility.
Conclusion
NAICS code 485 - Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation captures an essential segment of the transportation industry focused on moving people via ground vehicles. Whether you're involved in public urban transit, rural bus lines, or taxi services, understanding this NAICS code is crucial for regulatory compliance, government contracting, and market positioning.
Optimizing your business classification, understanding size standards, and knowing typical activities can open doors to valuable government opportunities and partnerships within this dynamic sector.
Keywords: NAICS code 485, Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation, urban transit systems, taxi services, limousine services, government contracting, transportation sector, school buses, interurban bus transportation
