51712 - Telecommunications Resellers and Agents for Wireless Telecommunication Services
The world of wireless communication is constantly evolving, and behind every mobile connection is a complex network of service providers and agents facilitating access to those services. NAICS code 51712 is a crucial identifier in the Information sector, covering businesses that act as intermediaries in the wireless telecommunications market. Whether you’re a government contractor, a business owner, or someone exploring the telecom industry, understanding this code can help you navigate opportunities and compliance requirements effectively.
What is NAICS Code 51712?
Definition
NAICS code 51712 refers to Telecommunications Resellers and Agents for Wireless Telecommunication Services. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in:
- Acting as agents or brokers in selling wireless telecommunication services, or
- Reselling wireless telecommunication services to customers.
Importantly, these businesses do not own the wireless network infrastructure themselves but play a vital role in connecting consumers and business clients to wireless services offered by network operators.
Sector: Information
NAICS 51712 falls under the broader Information sector, which encompasses industries that produce and distribute information and cultural products, provide the means to transmit or distribute these products, or process data.
Typical Business Activities for NAICS 51712
Establishments classified under NAICS 51712 primarily engage in:
- Acting as wireless service agents who facilitate sales but do not own network infrastructure
- Operating as telecommunications resellers purchasing wireless services wholesale and reselling to end-users
- Serving as mobile phone service brokers who connect customers to wireless plans and promotions
Common Examples of Businesses:
- Wireless service agency
- Mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that resell wireless services
- Independent mobile phone service brokers and sales agents
Size Standards for NAICS Code 51712
For federal contracting and compliance purposes, the Small Business Administration (SBA) defines the size standard for NAICS 51712 as follows:
| NAICS Code | Industry Title | Size Standard (Annual Receipts) |
|---|---|---|
| 51712 | Telecommunications Resellers and Agents for Wireless Telecommunication Services | $41.5 million or less (average annual receipts) |
This means a business qualifies as a small business under this code if it has average annual receipts of $41.5 million or less.
Detailed NAICS 51712 Code Information Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 51712 |
| Industry Title | Telecommunications Resellers and Agents for Wireless Telecommunication Services |
| Sector | Information |
| Description | Establishments primarily engaged as agents or brokers selling wireless telecommunication services or reselling wireless services. |
| Typical Activities | Wireless service agents, telecom resellers, mobile service brokers |
| Network Ownership | Does not own wireless telecommunication infrastructure |
| Size Standard | $41.5 million in average annual receipts |
Why NAICS 51712 is Important for Businesses
Understanding this NAICS code helps businesses:
- Target markets effectively by identifying their industry classification
- Qualify for federal contracts relevant to wireless telecommunications resale
- Benchmark sizes to determine if they meet small business requirements for set-aside contracts
- Understand competitive landscape and regulatory requirements in wireless service brokerage and resale
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About NAICS 51712
Q1: Does NAICS 51712 include companies that own wireless networks?
A: No. This code specifically excludes companies that own wireless telecommunications infrastructure. It covers those acting as resellers or agents.
Q2: Can a business that resells both wireless and wired telecommunication services be classified under NAICS 51712?
A: Only if their primary activity is reselling or brokering wireless telecommunication services. Wired services fall under different NAICS codes.
Q3: What are examples of wireless telecommunication services under this code?
A: Mobile phone plans, wireless internet, text messaging services, and other carrier-based wireless communications.
Q4: What are the benefits of knowing your NAICS code?
A: It streamlines business registration, improves marketing accuracy, aids in compliance with government contracting, and helps with access to specialized SBA programs.
Q5: How can my business verify its eligibility as a small business under this code?
A: By assessing your average annual receipts against the SBA-established size standard of $41.5 million or less for NAICS 51712.
Conclusion
NAICS code 51712 - Telecommunications Resellers and Agents for Wireless Telecommunication Services represents an essential segment of the wireless telecom ecosystem. These businesses bridge the gap between network operators and consumers without owning costly infrastructure. For companies involved in wireless service sales and brokerage, understanding this industry classification is key for accessing government contracts, adhering to regulations, and positioning for growth in a competitive market.
By aligning your business activities with NAICS 51712, you can unlock niche opportunities in the evolving wireless telecommunications landscape.
Keywords: NAICS 51712, Telecommunications Resellers, Wireless Telecommunication Services, Wireless Service Agents, Mobile Phone Service Brokers, Information Sector, Small Business Size Standards, SBA NAICS Codes, Telecommunications Industry
