What's the NAICS and SIC code for a courier or delivery business?

For a courier or delivery business, use NAICS 492110 (Couriers and Express Delivery Services) in the US and SIC 53202 (Unlicensed carrier) in the UK.

United States, NAICS 2022

492110 Couriers and Express Delivery Services

Couriers and Express Delivery Services (intercity networks).

SBA small business limit: 1,500 employees.

United Kingdom, SIC 2007

53202 Unlicensed carrier

Unlicensed carrier: courier activities other than national post.

Use this code when you register with Companies House or file your confirmation statement.

When a different code fits better

These are the codes most often confused with the main answer. Pick by the activity that earns most of your revenue.

CodeTitleUse it if
NAICS 492210Local Messengers and Local Deliveryyou deliver locally, including restaurant and grocery delivery
SIC 53201Licensed carriersyou are a licensed carrier

Good to know

App-based local delivery drivers usually fit 492210 in the US.

You can list more than one code. Companies House accepts up to four SIC codes, and SAM.gov lets you add several NAICS codes, with one marked as primary.

What the code affects

Codes checked against the US Census 2022 NAICS index and the ONS UK SIC 2007 index. Information only; confirm with the agency you file with.