Question: What is the NAICS code and how do I get one?
Answer: The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is the standard used by Federal statistical agencies in classifying business establishments for the purpose of collecting, analyzing, and publishing statistical data related to the U.S. business economy. The North American Industry Classification System was introduced in 1997 as a replacement for SIC Codes and now serves as the standard for the three NAFTA countries of Mexico, Canada, and the U.S. Developed at the urging of leading business economists, NAICS (pronounced "nakes") offers classifications that more closely reflect the many new industries that have re-shaped the U.S. and global economy. NAICS differs from SIC in that it focuses on business processes rather than on end products. It also captures many service industries currently under-represented in the SIC system. Like the SIC Code, NAICS is organized into hierarchical classification groups that build from the detailed industry level. The United States, Canada, and Mexico share the first five digits within the NAICS structure. The sixth digit is designed for country specific classifications and may differ from one nation to the next. While the old SIC Codes are still widely used, the Federal Government will no longer support and maintain this system. However, D&B will continue to append them in data collection and maintenance of company files.
United States Census Bureau