486210 - Pipeline Transportation of Natural Gas

The transportation of natural gas plays a critical role in powering homes, industries, and businesses across the United States. For companies involved in this essential service, NAICS Code 486210 is the primary classification that defines their operations. Whether you’re a business owner, government contractor, or industry professional, understanding NAICS 486210 - Pipeline Transportation of Natural Gas is key to navigating federal contracts, regulatory compliance, and market opportunities.

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What is NAICS Code 486210?

NAICS Code 486210 refers to establishments primarily engaged in the pipeline transportation of natural gas. This industry involves moving natural gas through extensive pipeline systems from processing plants to local distribution systems or end-users such as businesses and homes.

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Sector: Transportation and Warehousing

NAICS 486210 falls under the broader sector of Transportation and Warehousing, highlighting its role in the infrastructure and logistics of energy supply chains. These businesses ensure that natural gas is safely and efficiently transmitted over long distances, maintaining critical energy flow continuity.

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Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 486210

Companies operating under this code carry out a range of specialized activities, including but not limited to:

• Natural Gas Transmission Pipeline Operations: Managing large pipeline networks for transporting gas across regions.
• Booster Pumping Stations: Facilities that maintain pressure and flow in natural gas pipelines.
• Storage of Natural Gas: Temporary holding capabilities to balance supply and demand.
• Natural Gas Pipeline Transportation: The core activity of moving natural gas through pipelines.
• Transmission from Processing Plants to Local Distribution Systems: Ensuring processed gas reaches distribution centers or direct customers.

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Size Standard for NAICS 486210

To qualify as a small business under this NAICS code, a firm must have average annual receipts of $41.5 million dollars or less. This size standard is crucial when bidding for federal contracts or applying for small business certifications related to natural gas pipeline transportation.

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Examples of Businesses Covered by NAICS 486210

Here are some typical companies classified under this code:

• Natural gas transmission pipeline companies that operate interstate or intrastate pipelines.
• Natural gas pipeline operators responsible for the maintenance and monitoring of pipeline integrity.
• Natural gas transportation service providers offering logistics and transportation solutions within the natural gas sector.

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Detailed Code Description Table

Code Detail	Description
Booster pumping station	Facilities that boost pipeline gas pressure for continued flow.
Natural gas transportation	The movement of natural gas via pipeline networks.
Gas, natural, pipeline operation	Day-to-day operation of natural gas pipelines.
Natural gas pipeline transportation	Transportation services specific to natural gas pipelines.
Natural gas transmission	Moving gas from processing plants to distribution systems.
Pipeline transportation, natural gas	General category covering the transportation of natural gas by pipeline.
Storage of natural gas	Facilities that store natural gas to balance supply demands.
Transmission of natural gas via pipeline	Transmission from processing setups to local distribution points or customers.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does NAICS code 486210 cover?

This NAICS code covers businesses engaged primarily in transporting natural gas via pipelines from processing plants to local distribution systems or end users.

Which sector does NAICS 486210 belong to?

It belongs to the Transportation and Warehousing sector, highlighting its role in the logistics and energy transport industries.

What is the size standard for small businesses under NAICS 486210?

A business is considered small if it has average annual receipts up to $41.5 million.

Can companies involved in natural gas storage be classified under NAICS 486210?

Yes, storage of natural gas related to pipeline operations is included within this classification.

Are distributors or retailers of natural gas classified under NAICS 486210?

No, NAICS 486210 specifically covers pipeline transportation and transmission, not distribution or retail sales.

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Conclusion

NAICS Code 486210 - Pipeline Transportation of Natural Gas defines a vital industry sector responsible for delivering one of the nation’s most important energy resources. Understanding the scope, sector classification, and size standards helps businesses position themselves effectively in federal contracting and industry markets. Whether you’re operating natural gas pipelines or offering related transportation services, NAICS 486210 is an essential designation to know.

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Keywords: NAICS 486210, Pipeline Transportation of Natural Gas, natural gas pipeline, transportation and warehousing, natural gas transmission, natural gas storage, booster pumping station, natural gas operators, pipeline transportation services.