4931 - Warehousing and Storage
The world of logistics and supply chain management depends heavily on efficient warehousing and storage solutions. If you're exploring opportunities or researching sectors within the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), NAICS code 4931 - Warehousing and Storage is essential to understand. This industry plays a crucial role in ensuring products—from general merchandise to temperature-sensitive perishable goods—are stored, managed, and distributed effectively.
What is NAICS Code 4931?
NAICS code 4931, titled Warehousing and Storage, covers establishments primarily engaged in the operation of warehousing and storage facilities. These facilities provide storage services for a wide range of products, including general merchandise, refrigerated goods, and other warehouse products. Many establishments under this code also offer value-added services such as distribution and logistics support, making them a vital link in the supply chain.
Sector Overview: Transportation and Warehousing
NAICS 4931 falls under the broader Transportation and Warehousing sector. This sector includes services that help move goods and materials from producers to consumers efficiently and securely. Warehousing and storage facilities serve as critical infrastructure by:
- Offering secure and organized storage for goods
- Maintaining inventory prior to distribution or sale
- Providing specialized storage, such as refrigerated and climate-controlled units
- Supporting logistics operations through distribution and related services
Typical Business Activities in NAICS 4931
Businesses operating under NAICS 4931 typically engage in:
- General merchandise warehousing
- Refrigerated warehousing and cold storage
- Storage and distribution centers offering inventory management
- Bulk storage for raw materials or finished products
- Fulfillment centers supporting e-commerce and retail distribution
Size Standards for NAICS Code 4931
For government contracting and small business considerations, size standards are important to determine eligibility:
- Size Standard: Typically, warehousing and storage establishments under NAICS 4931 are considered small businesses if they have 500 employees or fewer.
- This threshold may vary by specific contract or agency guidelines but generally applies across the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) definitions.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS Code 4931
Here are some examples of businesses and activities that fit within this NAICS classification:
- Regional refrigerated storage facilities serving food distributors
- Third-party logistics (3PL) providers managing warehousing and distribution
- Companies operating general merchandise warehouses for retail chains
- Cold storage providers for pharmaceutical products needing precise temperature control
- Bulk storage locations for industrial supplies or manufacturing inputs
NAICS 4931 Code Details
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 4931 |
| Title | Warehousing and Storage |
| Sector | Transportation and Warehousing |
| Subsector | Warehousing and Storage |
| Industry Description | Establishments operating warehousing and storage facilities for various products, including refrigerated goods, offering storage, distribution, and logistics support |
| Typical Businesses | General merchandise warehouses, refrigerated warehousing, distribution centers |
| Size Standard | 500 employees or fewer |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What type of services are included under NAICS code 4931?
NAICS 4931 includes services such as storage of general merchandise, refrigerated goods, and distribution center operations that may manage inventory and logistics support.
How does warehousing differ from storage?
Warehousing typically involves not only storage but also activities like inventory management, sorting, and distribution. Storage may refer simply to holding goods without additional services.
Are refrigerated warehousing facilities part of this industry?
Yes, refrigerated or cold storage warehouses fall under NAICS 4931 as they provide specialized storage for temperature-sensitive products.
What is the significance of the size standard for NAICS 4931?
Size standards determine whether a business qualifies as a small business for government contracting and SBA programs. For NAICS 4931, having 500 or fewer employees usually qualifies a company as a small business.
Can a fulfillment center operate under NAICS 4931?
Yes, fulfillment centers that provide storage and distribution for products—especially those managing inventory for e-commerce—can be classified under this NAICS code.
Conclusion
NAICS code 4931 – Warehousing and Storage – is foundational to the transportation and warehousing sector, supporting supply chains across industries. Whether you are a business owner, government contractor, or researcher, understanding this classification helps you identify critical players in logistics, recognize market opportunities, and ensure compliance with size standards for contracting or financing.
By leveraging warehousing and storage facilities, businesses can safeguard inventory, optimize distribution, and enhance overall supply chain efficiency. For more information on government contracting or industry classification, exploring NAICS 4931 is a great starting point.
Keywords: NAICS code 4931, Warehousing and Storage, refrigerated warehousing, distribution centers, transportation and warehousing sector, small business size standards, logistics support, government contracting.
