Workers’ Comp Codes for Retail Stores and Wholesalers

What are Class Codes and why do they matter?

Workers’ comp class codes are four-digit numbers assigned by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) or state-specific agencies. These codes group employees by the type of work they do and the associated risks. Each code is assigned a rate that determines the cost of workers’ comp insurance for that role.

For retail and wholesale workers’ comp, proper classification is important. Misclassifying employees can lead to overpaying premiums or, worse, gaps in coverage that leave your business exposed.

Common Workers’ Comp Class Codes for Retail and Wholesale

Retail Store Code 8017

This is the most common code for general retail stores. It covers businesses selling a wide variety of merchandise, such as:

• Office supply stores
• Gift and novelty shops
• Shoe and clothing stores
• Sporting goods stores
• Liquor stores
• Pawn shops
• Pet supply shops

Class code 8017 applies to stores not classified under a specialty code. It’s ideal for retailers with minimal physical risks, such as those selling general goods.

Wholesale Class Code 8293

This code is used for wholesale operations, such as distributors and warehouses. Wholesale businesses often involve more physically demanding tasks, like moving bulk inventory and operating forklifts, which carry higher risks than typical retail jobs.

State-Specific Class Codes

In Delaware and Pennsylvania, retail employees are classified under code 0928. This code covers general retail operations, similar to 8017, but is specific to these two states.

Non-Industry Class Codes

Not all workers' comp class codes are specific to a particular industry. Some codes apply broadly across various types of businesses, including retail and wholesale.

Class Code 8810

This code is used for clerical employees who perform office-based tasks, such as bookkeeping, payroll, and customer service from a desk. Because these roles involve minimal physical risk, class code 8810 has one of the lowest workers’ comp rates. 

Even if your business operates in retail or wholesale, employees who strictly handle administrative duties may be classified under this code instead of an industry-specific one.

If you correctly use non-industry class codes like 8810, you can ensure accurate coverage and avoid overpaying on premiums for employees who are not exposed to typical retail or wholesale risks.

How do Workers' Comp Class Codes affect Insurance Rates?

The class codes you use directly impact your workers’ comp premiums. For example, retailers typically pay lower rates than wholesalers because their employees face fewer risks. 

Using the correct codes ensures you’re paying a fair premium and avoiding costly misclassifications. 

For retail businesses with a mix of roles, it’s important to assign employees to the right codes—such as 8810 for clerical workers and 8017 for sales staff—to reflect their duties accurately.

Average Workers’ Comp Rates for Retail Class Code 8017

Below are the average hotel workers’ comp rates for selected states:  

Curious about how these rates translate into costs for your business? Check out this Guide to Workers’ Compensation for Retail Cost. 

Average Workers’ Comp Rates for Wholesale Class Code 8018

Below are the average hotel workers’ comp rates for selected states:  

This might also be helpful...

Read more...

‍

Preventing Injuries in Retail and Wholesale

A strong safety program can reduce injuries and help keep your premiums low. For retailers, common risks include slips, falls, and strains from lifting merchandise. Wholesalers face additional hazards like injuries from heavy equipment and falling objects.

Tips to reduce Injuries:

• ‍Train for lifting - teach employees proper lifting techniques and use tools like dollies and handcarts‍
• Keep walkways clear - promptly clean up spills and remove clutter‍
• Use proper gear - Encourage employees to wear non-slip shoes and other protective equipment

Taking these steps not only prevents injuries but also demonstrates to your insurer that you’re committed to workplace safety, potentially lowering your premiums.

Find the right Workers’ Comp Rates for your Business

Want to know how much workers’ comp insurance will cost for your retail or wholesale business? Use our online tool to get a tailored quote and see how much you can save!