Research Guides: Ratio Analysis: Using NAICS and SIC Codes

What is Your Industry?

In order to use industry ratios, you must define your industry using NAICS.

NAICS (pronounced "nakes", rhymes with "snakes") codes are used by the government and publishers to organize and present industry data. Most of the sources of industry ratios listed in this guide use NAICS.

NAICS

NAICS codes classify establishments based on similar processes or means of production. Codes use a two to six digit level of detail, from broad sectors like manufacturing and retail (2-digit codes) to individual industries (6-digit codes).

31 - Industry Sector - Manufacturing

311- Industry Sub-sector – Food Mfg

3111- Industry Group – Animal Food Mfg

311111- Industry –Dog & Cat Food Mfg

NAICS - North American Industry Classification System
Type in the industry name or keyword to find a NAICS code.
Type in a NAICS code to find an industry definition.

NAICS Outline

NAICS Index
Need a brief outline of the NAICS classification system? Use this five page guide.

SIC-Standard Industrial Classification

SIC- Standard Industrial Classification System
Historical data may be presented using SIC codes, the original U.S. industry classification system. Last revised in 1987 when it was replaced with the more detailed NAICS system.