81231 - Coin-Operated Laundries and Drycleaners
When it comes to everyday conveniences, coin-operated laundries and drycleaners play a vital role in communities across the United States. Identified under NAICS code 81231, this industry sector encompasses businesses that provide accessible, self-service laundry and dry cleaning options using coin-operated machines. Whether you're a business owner, contractor, or simply curious about this industry, understanding NAICS 81231 is essential for navigating government contracts, market research, and operational insights.
What is NAICS Code 81231?
NAICS code 81231 - Coin-Operated Laundries and Drycleaners includes establishments primarily engaged in operating coin-operated laundries and dry cleaning services for the public. These businesses focus on providing convenient, self-service laundry solutions such as washing, drying, and drycleaning through the use of coin-operated machinery.
Key Highlights:
- Establishments operate primarily on a self-service basis.
- Machines are coin-operated, facilitating pay-per-use convenience.
- Services include washing, drying, and dry cleaning.
Industry Sector and Typical Business Activities
NAICS 81231 falls under the broader sector of:
Sector: Other Services (except Public Administration)
This sector includes various service establishments that do not fit into traditional manufacturing, retail, or public administration categories. Coin-operated laundries and dry cleaners occupy a unique niche by offering practical, daily-use services primarily to consumers without requiring staffing for each transaction.
Typical Business Types or Activities under NAICS 81231:
- Self-service laundromats: Facilities where customers operate washing and drying machines themselves.
- Coin-operated dry cleaning services: Dry cleaning machines that operate via coin payment.
- Laundry facilities with coin-operated machines: Combination laundromats featuring washing, drying, and sometimes folding services but primarily reliant on coin-operated equipment.
Size Standards for NAICS Code 81231
For SBA (Small Business Administration) size standards, businesses under NAICS code 81231 are typically considered small if their annual receipts do not exceed $16.5 million (size standards may be updated—always verify the latest thresholds through SBA resources).
This size standard is crucial for companies seeking to qualify for small business set-aside contracts or federal assistance programs within this industry.
Examples of Businesses Falling Under NAICS 81231
- Local neighborhood self-service laundromats where customers pay by the machine.
- Dry cleaning establishments offering coin-operated machines alongside staffed services.
- All-in-one laundry centers with multiple coin-operated washers and dryers available for public use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What services are included in Coin-Operated Laundries and Drycleaners (NAICS 81231)?
Services include self-service laundry, washing, drying, and drycleaning using machines that operate via coin payment. Some facilities also offer additional options like detergent vending or folding tables.
Is NAICS 81231 only for self-service laundromats?
Yes, primarily. The industry focuses on coin-operated, self-service laundry and dry cleaning facilities, distinguishing them from full-service commercial laundry or staffed dry cleaners.
What is the average revenue size standard for small businesses in this sector?
The SBA considers businesses with annual receipts of up to $16.5 million as small under NAICS 81231.
Can larger laundry services use this NAICS code?
If a business operates coin-operated machines as a primary activity, they may fall under this code, but full-service or commercial laundries without coin operations will classify differently.
Conclusion
NAICS code 81231 – Coin-Operated Laundries and Drycleaners – represents a crucial service industry that provides accessible, convenient laundry solutions through self-service, coin-operated machines. Whether you’re exploring market opportunities, aiming for government contracts, or interested in starting a self-service laundry business, understanding this NAICS code helps you align your operations with industry standards and size regulations. By targeting this niche, businesses can tap into a steady market demand driven by convenience and necessity.
Keywords: NAICS code 81231, coin-operated laundries, coin-operated drycleaners, self-service laundromats, laundry services, SBA size standards, small business, government contracting
