48832 - Marine Cargo Handling

In the dynamic world of transportation and warehousing, NAICS Code 48832 stands out as an essential classification for businesses involved in marine logistics. Whether you’re a company looking to understand government contracting opportunities or just curious about the marine cargo industry, knowing about NAICS 48832 – Marine Cargo Handling is crucial.

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What is NAICS Code 48832?

NAICS 48832 refers to establishments primarily engaged in operating marine cargo handling facilities. This includes the critical operations of loading and unloading cargo from ships and performing related activities at ports, harbors, and marine terminals.

Key Activities Covered Under NAICS 48832 Include:

• Operating port terminal facilities
• Stevedoring (ship loading and unloading)
• Dock and cargo handling operations
• Receiving and staging marine freight

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Sector Overview: Transportation and Warehousing

NAICS 48832 falls under the broader Transportation and Warehousing sector (NAICS 48-49), which covers all forms of movement and storage of goods. Within this sector, marine cargo handling services form a vital link in global supply chains, enabling seamless maritime trade.

Typical Business Activities Under This Code

• Managing day-to-day operations of port terminals
• Coordinating the logistics of cargo ship loading/unloading
• Providing dockworker labor for ships and barges
• Offering stevedoring services to shipping companies

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Small Business Size Standards for NAICS 48832

To qualify as a small business under this NAICS code for government contracting purposes (small business size standards according to SBA):

NAICS Code	Industry Title	Size Standard (Number of Employees)
48832	Marine Cargo Handling	1,500 employees

Businesses with 1,500 or fewer employees are generally considered small, which can influence eligibility for certain federal contracts and programs.

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Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 48832

Some typical examples of companies and operations classified under this industry include:

• Port Terminal Operators – Companies managing cargo operations at marine terminals.
• Stevedoring Companies – Specialized firms providing labor for loading and unloading ships.
• Dockworkers and Cargo Handlers – Workforce engaged in marine freight handling activities.

These businesses play a crucial role in facilitating maritime commerce and maintaining port efficiency.

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NAICS 48832 Code Details Table

Element	Description
NAICS Code	48832
Title	Marine Cargo Handling
Sector	Transportation and Warehousing
Industry Description	Operation of marine cargo handling facilities including loading/unloading ships and related port activities
Size Standard	1,500 employees
Common Businesses	Port terminal operators, Stevedoring companies, Dockworkers, Cargo handlers

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About NAICS 48832

What does Marine Cargo Handling entail?

It involves the management and operation of facilities that load, unload, and handle cargo transported via ships at ports and harbors.

Is NAICS 48832 only for companies operating at sea?

No, it's for companies managing port-side cargo operations, not the transportation via vessels themselves.

Can small businesses qualify under this NAICS code?

Yes, businesses with 1,500 or fewer employees qualify as small under SBA standards.

What types of companies use NAICS 48832?

Port terminal operators, stevedoring companies, dockworkers, and other cargo handling service providers.

How is NAICS 48832 different from other maritime NAICS codes?

This code specifically covers cargo handling operations at ports, not ship operation or marine transportation services.

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Conclusion

NAICS Code 48832 - Marine Cargo Handling encapsulates the vital operations that keep global maritime commerce flowing smoothly. From the dockworkers unloading containers to the terminal operators managing complex port logistics, this code defines a significant segment of the transportation and warehousing sector. Whether you’re a small business owner or a government contractor, understanding this NAICS code helps you navigate maritime industry opportunities with confidence.

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Keywords: NAICS 48832, Marine Cargo Handling, marine cargo operations, port terminal operators, stevedoring companies, dockworkers, transportation and warehousing, marine freight handling, government contracting, size standards.