Quarterly Survey of Plant Capacity Utilization (QPC): MQ-C2 FAQs General

General

1. Do I have to respond?

The survey is not a mandatory survey.

2. How did we get chosen to participate?

Approximately 7,500 manufacturing and publishing plants, (with 5 or more employees), defined by the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), were randomly selected to complete this survey. Probability of selection was proportionate to a measure of size derived from information obtained from the 2007 Economic Census. The survey covers NAICS subsectors 311-339 and 5111.

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3. What if the plant is no longer in business?

In item 1, indicate the month and year when operations ceased at this plant. If the plant was in operation at ANY time during the quarter, complete items 2 through 6. Report full and national emergency production as if the plant operated the entire quarter.

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4. What if the plant was recently sold?

In item 1, indicate the month and year this action took place and provide new owner information if available. If you still maintain records for this plant, complete items 2-6. If you do not have information about this plant, complete item 6 only and return the form.

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5. What if we are not a manufacturing plant?

Indicate this information in the comment section of the form and return it or you can call an analyst at 1-800-201-4647 option 5.

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6. Where do I send my completed form?

Send the completed form to U.S. Census Bureau, 1201 East 10th Street Jeffersonville, IN 47132-0001 or you can fax the completed form to 1-800-447-4613.

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7. Can I fill the form out online?

You may also complete your form online, using the username and password that are located on your form below the address. You can access our form online from the link for Internet Reporting. If you are having problems with your password you can call an analyst at 1-800-201-4647 option 5.

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8. Will my information be kept confidential?

Section 9 of Title 13, United States Code requires that we keep your report in full confidence. It may be seen only by persons sworn to uphold the confidentiality of Census Bureau information and may be used only for statistical purposes. Copies retained in your files are immune from legal process. You may visit our website at http://www.census.gov/privacy/

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9. Who uses plant capacity data and why?

The Federal Reserve Board benchmark monthly estimates of capacity output and utilization. In addition, they analyze change in use of capital, capital stocks and inputs related to capacity growth.

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