48611 - Pipeline Transportation of Crude Oil

When navigating the complex world of government contracting and industry classification, understanding NAICS codes is essential. One critical code in the energy and transportation sectors is NAICS Code 48611 – Pipeline Transportation of Crude Oil. This code is vital for businesses involved in the transportation of crude petroleum, a cornerstone of the energy infrastructure in the United States. In this blog post, we dive deep into NAICS 48611, exploring its definition, sector classification, typical business activities, size standards, and more.

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What is NAICS Code 48611?

NAICS Code 48611 applies to establishments primarily engaged in the pipeline transportation of crude oil. This industry covers companies that move crude petroleum through extensive pipeline systems from production sites, such as oil fields, to refineries or storage facilities for further processing.

Key Aspects of NAICS 48611:

• Primary Activity: Transportation of crude oil via pipelines
• Purpose: Efficient movement from production to refining/storage
• Scope: Includes both operation and management of crude oil pipelines

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Sector and Industry Overview

NAICS Code 48611 falls under the larger umbrella of the Transportation and Warehousing sector (NAICS Sector 48-49). This sector encompasses companies involved in the movement of goods and passengers, as well as warehousing and storage of goods.

Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 48611:

• Operating crude oil pipeline systems
• Pipeline transportation service provision for crude petroleum
• Managing crude petroleum transmission infrastructure
• Maintenance and monitoring of oil pipeline networks

Examples of Typical Business Types:

• Crude Oil Pipeline Operators
• Pipeline Transportation Service Providers
• Crude Petroleum Transmission Companies

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Size Standards for NAICS Code 48611

To qualify as a small business under this NAICS code when seeking government contracts, the size standard is typically based on the average annual receipts or number of employees, as determined by the SBA.

Criterion	Threshold
Size Standard (Small)	$38.5 million in average annual receipts*

* Size standards can vary based on SBA updates; always verify the current standards on the SBA website or relevant government portals.

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Detailed NAICS Code 48611 Information Table

NAICS Code	Title	Description	Sector	Size Standard	Examples of Businesses
48611	Pipeline Transportation of Crude Oil	Establishments primarily engaged in pipeline transportation of crude oil from production to refinery/storage.	Transportation and Warehousing	$38.5 million average annual receipts	Crude oil pipeline operators, pipeline transportation service providers, crude petroleum transmission companies

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About NAICS Code 48611

1. What types of companies use NAICS code 48611?

Businesses that operate or manage crude oil pipeline transportation systems, including pipeline operators and transmission companies, typically fall under this code.

2. How is crude oil transported under this NAICS code?

Crude oil is transported via specialized pipeline infrastructure from extraction sites to refineries or storage facilities.

3. Why is NAICS 48611 important for government contracting?

Many government contracts and bidding opportunities require accurate NAICS classification. Using the correct code ensures access to relevant contracts and eligibility for small business programs.

4. Can midstream companies fall under NAICS 48611?

Yes, midstream companies involved specifically in crude oil pipeline transportation qualify under this code.

5. Are companies that transport refined petroleum included?

No, NAICS 48611 is specific to crude oil transportation. Transporting refined petroleum products falls under a different NAICS code.

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Conclusion

NAICS Code 48611 – Pipeline Transportation of Crude Oil plays a crucial role in defining and categorizing businesses engaged in the vital movement of crude oil across the U.S. pipeline networks. Whether you’re a crude oil pipeline operator, a service provider, or a government contracting professional, understanding this NAICS code helps enhance your strategic positioning and compliance.

For small businesses, knowing the size standards tied to NAICS 48611 can open doors to government contracts and expand growth opportunities. Stay informed about this industry's classification to leverage contracts and partnerships effectively in the transportation and energy sectors.

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