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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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