If you’ve ever registered a company in the UK, you’ve probably come across the term SIC code—but what exactly does it mean? In this article, we’ll break it down in simple terms and explain why it matters for businesses.

What is a SIC code in the UK?

A Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code is a five-digit number that identifies a company’s main business activity. These codes help Companies House, government agencies, and industry bodies understand what your business does.

Every company in the UK must select at least one SIC code when registering with Companies House. If your business operates in multiple industries, you can add up to four SIC codes to give a fuller picture of your activities.

Why your business needs one

SIC codes serve several purposes, including:

• Company registration – Required when forming a limited company to classify your business activity.
• Industry classification – Helps government bodies track economic trends and analyse industries.
• Compliance and reporting – Used by banks, insurers, and regulatory bodies when assessing businesses.
• Marketing and research – Helps companies and analysts identify businesses in specific industries.

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How SIC codes work in the UK

SIC codes are managed by Companies House under the UK Standard Industrial Classification (UK SIC) system. The current list of SIC codes follows the 2007 revision and covers a wide range of industries—from agriculture to IT consulting. A smaller revision is expected to be completed this year. Examples of SIC codes in the UK

• 62012 – Business and domestic software development
• 70229 – Management consultancy
• 01621 – Farm animal boarding and care
• 69201 – Accounting and auditing activities.

If you’re unsure which SIC code to use, Companies House provides a full list on their website. You can also change your SIC code later if your business focus shifts.

Finding or updating your SIC code

You can check your SIC code by looking up your company’s public record on Companies House. If you're forming a new company, you'll select your SIC code as part of the registration process.If you realise you’ve chosen the wrong SIC code, don’t worry—you can update it by filing a Confirmation Statement. This can be done at any time within a 12-month period, or alternatively, it can wait until your next statement is due. We’d recommend checking out our helpful guide “The ultimate guide to filing your Confirmation Statement” for a step-by-step guide. 

‍Making sense of SIC codes

‍SIC codes may seem like a minor detail, but they play a crucial role in classifying businesses in the UK. Choosing the right one ensures your business is correctly recorded and helps government bodies, financial institutions, and researchers understand your industry.If you’re setting up a company and need help with SIC codes or business registration, Crunch is here to make the process simple. Our online accounting and company formation services can help you get set up the right way.