TEXTILES.ORG
Compiled by Juli Case
Which SIC codes are used for awning companies?
SIC stands for Standard Industrial Classification, a method that was used, beginning back in the 1930s, to gather data on the United States economy. Companies are grouped by a category, determined by what products they produce or handle. By analyzing data from a particular SIC code, it is possible to do a statistical analysis of a particular industry. In response to the changing nature of U.S. industry, SIC codes were converted to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS); no SIC codes were assigned after November 2004. NAICS codes were developed in conjunction with Canada and Mexico, and not only offer more codes, but describe current industry conditions more accurately.
Despite the development of NAICS codes, SIC codes are still referenced. Your accountant, for example, may want to compare your company to similar companies, and may have a program that needs your SIC code to do it. The U.S. Census Bureau is the entity responsible for the codes, both the original SIC and the current NAICS. The codes can be accessed on the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration site at www.osha.gov/oshstats/naics-manual.html.
For awnings, we found four SIC codes that might apply, depending upon what part of the awning industry you’re in. SIC 2394 is Canvas and Related Products, and is described as “establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing awnings, tents, and related products from purchased fabrics.” SIC 1799 is Special Trade Contractors, Not Elsewhere Classified, and is described as “special trade contractors primarily engaged in construction work, not elsewhere classified.” Awning installation is listed as one of the areas covered by this code. SIC 5999 is Miscellaneous Retail Stores, Not Elsewhere Classified, and is described as “establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of specialized lines of merchandise, not elsewhere classified.” Awning shops–retail is one of the areas covered by this code. SIC 7699 is Repair Shops and Related Services, Not Elsewhere Classified, and is described as “establishments primarily engaged in specialized repair services, not elsewhere classified.” Awning repair shops would be covered by this code.
Be advised that SIC codes don’t match to NAICS codes perfectly, because the NAICS codes are more detailed.