NAICS Code 561910: Complete Guide to Packaging & Labeling Services

Table of Contents#

1. What Is NAICS Code 561910?
2. Core Services Covered Under NAICS 561910
3. Which Businesses Qualify for NAICS 561910?
4. How to Verify Your Business Eligibility
5. Key Benefits of Using NAICS Code 561910
6. How to Register or Update Your NAICS Code
7. Common Misconceptions About NAICS 561910
8. Conclusion
9. References

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1. What Is NAICS Code 561910?#

NAICS Code 561910 falls under the following hierarchical structure:

• Sector 56: Administrative and Support Services
  • Subsector 561: Administrative and Support Services
    • Industry Group 5619: Other Administrative Support Services
      • Industry 561910: Packaging and Labeling Services

This code is reserved for businesses whose primary revenue comes from providing packaging and labeling services to other entities (rather than manufacturing products or packaging materials themselves). Its purpose is to standardize how these businesses are categorized, making it easier to track industry trends, allocate government resources, and match businesses with relevant contracts.

2. Core Services Covered Under NAICS 561910#

The scope of NAICS 561910 includes a wide range of specialized services focused on preparing products for market or shipment. Key examples include:

Packaging Services#

• Custom Packaging: Designing and creating tailored packaging for unique products (e.g., luxury goods, fragile electronics, or oversized items).
• Protective Packaging: Using materials like bubble wrap, foam, or air pillows to prevent damage during transit.
• Retail Packaging: Creating eye-catching, shelf-ready packaging for consumer products (e.g., boxes, blister packs, or gift sets).
• Bulk Packaging: Preparing large quantities of products for wholesale distribution (e.g., palletizing, shrink-wrapping cases).

Labeling Services#

• Compliance Labeling: Ensuring products meet regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA nutrition labels, OSHA warning labels, or international shipping labels like CE marks).
• Brand Labeling: Applying custom logos, product names, or marketing messages to packaging or products.
• Barcode & QR Code Labeling: Adding scannable codes for inventory management, tracking, or customer engagement.
• Variable Data Labeling: Printing unique information (e.g., serial numbers, expiration dates, or personalized messages) on labels.

Related Support Services#

• Kitting & Assembly: Combining multiple products into a single package (e.g., gift kits, product bundles).
• Fulfillment Support: Assisting with order processing, including packaging and labeling as part of end-to-end fulfillment.
• Shrink Wrapping & Banding: Securing products or packages with plastic film or bands for stability.

3. Which Businesses Qualify for NAICS 561910?#

A business qualifies for NAICS 561910 if its primary activity is providing packaging and/or labeling services to external clients. Eligible businesses include:

• Third-party contract packagers that specialize in packaging products for other brands.
• Labeling service providers that offer regulatory, brand, or barcode labeling for diverse industries.
• Fulfillment centers where packaging and labeling are core service offerings (not just secondary to storage).
• Specialty packaging firms focused on eco-friendly or sustainable packaging solutions.
• Small businesses that offer custom packaging/labeling services to local retailers or e-commerce sellers.

Businesses That Do NOT Qualify#

• Manufacturers: Companies that produce packaging materials (e.g., boxes, labels) fall under manufacturing codes like 322220 (Paper Bag Manufacturing) or 322230 (Label Manufacturing).
• Product Producers: Businesses that package their own products (e.g., a bakery packaging its own bread) are categorized under their respective manufacturing or retail codes, not 561910.
• Logistics Companies: If packaging is a minor part of a broader logistics service (e.g., shipping), the business may fall under 484121 (General Freight Trucking) instead.

4. How to Verify Your Business Eligibility#

To confirm if your business fits NAICS 561910, ask yourself these questions:

1. Is at least 50% of your revenue generated from providing packaging/labeling services to external clients?
2. Do you not manufacture the products you package or label?
3. Are your services focused on preparing products for distribution, sale, or shipment?
4. Are you not primarily selling packaging materials (e.g., boxes, labels) as a product?

If you answered "yes" to most of these, NAICS 561910 is likely the correct code for your business. For further clarity, cross-reference your services with the official NAICS manual.

5. Key Benefits of Using NAICS Code 561910#

Using the correct NAICS code offers several tangible benefits for your business:

Access to Government Contracts#

Many federal, state, and local government contracts require businesses to match specific NAICS codes. By listing 561910, you become eligible for contracts specifically for packaging and labeling services, opening up new revenue streams.

Industry Data & Insights#

Government agencies like the U.S. Census Bureau use NAICS codes to publish industry-specific data, including market size, growth rates, and competitor metrics. This data can help you make informed decisions about pricing, expansion, and marketing.

Tax Incentives & Grants#

Some regions offer tax breaks, grants, or subsidies for businesses in targeted NAICS sectors. For example, businesses focused on sustainable packaging under 561910 may qualify for environmental incentives.

Credibility & Clarity#

Using the correct NAICS code helps clients, partners, and lenders understand your core business at a glance. It also ensures you’re categorized accurately in industry directories and search results.

6. How to Register or Update Your NAICS Code#

For U.S. businesses, here’s how to register or update your NAICS code:

1. Initial Registration: When registering your business with the IRS (Form SS-4) or state business registry, specify NAICS Code 561910 as your primary industry code.
2. Updating Your Code: If you need to update your code, visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s NAICS website to confirm the correct code, then update it with relevant agencies (e.g., SBA, state tax office, or IRS).
3. Review Periodically: NAICS codes are updated every 5 years (the latest update was in 2022). Review your code regularly to ensure it still aligns with your business activities.

7. Common Misconceptions About NAICS 561910#

Let’s debunk some common myths:

• Myth: Any business that packages products uses 561910.
  Fact: Only businesses that provide packaging/labeling as a service to others qualify. Product manufacturers packaging their own goods use their industry-specific code.
• Myth: NAICS codes are only for large businesses.
  Fact: Small businesses need NAICS codes to apply for SBA loans, government contracts, and access industry data.
• Myth: NAICS 561910 covers packaging material manufacturing.
  Fact: Manufacturing packaging materials falls under separate codes (e.g., 322220 for paper bags). NAICS 561910 is strictly for services.

8. Conclusion#

NAICS Code 561910 is a critical classification for businesses specializing in packaging and labeling services. It not only standardizes how your business is categorized but also opens doors to government contracts, industry insights, and potential incentives. By understanding its scope, eligibility criteria, and benefits, you can ensure your business is properly classified and positioned for growth.

9. References#

• U.S. Census Bureau. (2022). NAICS Code 561910: Packaging and Labeling Services. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/naics/
• U.S. Small Business Administration. (n.d.). NAICS Codes for Small Businesses. Retrieved from https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/launch-your-business/choose-naics-code
• Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Labeling & Nutrition. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/food/food-labeling-nutrition