NAICS 48311 - Deep Sea, Coastal, and Great Lakes Water Transportation
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Related NAICS Codes for NAICS 48311
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What is NAICS 48311
NAICS code 48311 covers establishments primarily engaged in providing water transportation services over deep sea, coastal, Great Lakes, and the St. Lawrence Seaway routes. Businesses operating in this sector typically include shipping companies that transport cargo and passengers across vast bodies of water, facilitating international and domestic trade. These operations are critical in moving goods such as bulk commodities, containers, vehicles, and other freight that require maritime transit. Government agencies contract these services to support supply chain logistics, military and defense transportation needs, disaster relief operations, and infrastructure projects that require large-scale movement of materials by water. The unique expertise and specialized vessels required make this sector an essential component of national and international commerce.
Industry Classification for NAICS 48311
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing deep sea, coastal, Great Lakes, and St. Lawrence Seaway water transportation. Marine transportation establishments using the facilities of the St. Lawrence Seaway Authority Commission are considered to be using the Great Lakes Water Transportation System.
Breakdown for NAICS 48311
- Includes establishments engaged in deep sea, coastal, Great Lakes, and St. Lawrence Seaway water transportation.
- Covers transportation of cargo and passengers via specialized marine vessels.
- Applies to businesses operating under maritime shipping routes critical to commerce and defense.
- Involves compliance with maritime regulations and environmental standards.
- Typical contracts serve federal, state, and local government transportation needs.
- Size standards vary based on vessel tonnage and annual revenue thresholds.
Included Activities for NAICS 48311
- Operating vessels for transport of bulk and containerized cargo over ocean and lake routes.
- Providing passenger ferry and transport services on coastal and Great Lakes waters.
- Managing logistics and scheduling for maritime freight shipments.
- Supporting military and defense maritime transport requirements.
- Performing maintenance and operations of vessels in compliance with maritime laws.
- Coordinating with port authorities and customs for cargo handling.
- Ensuring environmental compliance for emissions and waste management on ships.
- Utilizing St. Lawrence Seaway facilities for cargo transit.
Business Types for NAICS 48311
- Deep sea shipping companies
- Coastal water transportation operators
- Great Lakes freight carriers
- Passenger ferry service providers
- Marine logistics and shipping firms
- Defense maritime transport contractors
Government Buyers for NAICS 48311
Federal agencies such as the Department of Defense, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Department of Transportation are primary purchasers of deep sea, coastal, and Great Lakes water transportation services. These agencies rely on maritime transport for deploying military equipment, maintaining navigational aids, conducting maritime security operations, and facilitating emergency response efforts. State and local governments may also engage contractors under this NAICS code for infrastructure projects, environmental management, and transportation of goods in regional waterways. Contracting for these services ensures efficient, secure, and cost-effective movement of critical cargo and personnel across water routes.
Contract Types & Procurement for NAICS 48311
Contracts within NAICS 48311 often include firm-fixed-price, cost-reimbursement, and time-and-materials agreements depending on the complexity and duration of transportation requirements. Procurement methods range from full and open competition to sole-source contracts, especially when specialized vessels or routes are involved. Typical contract values vary significantly, from small-scale regional transport agreements to multimillion-dollar contracts supporting large military deployments or commercial shipping. Contract vehicles may include Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts that allow agencies flexible access to maritime transport services as needed.
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