Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
Not Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSIR441USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1.90
Year-over-Year Change
-5.94%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' retail sales index measures changes in retail sales in the U.S. without adjusting for seasonal variations. This metric provides insight into real-world consumer spending patterns.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' retail sales index tracks monthly changes in the total value of sales by U.S. retailers. Unlike the seasonally adjusted metric, this index presents the raw, unadjusted data, offering a direct view of actual consumer activity.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects data from a sample of retail establishments to calculate this index.
Historical Context
Economists and policymakers use this index to supplement the seasonally adjusted data and gain a fuller understanding of consumer behavior.
Key Facts
- The index is published monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
- The data is not adjusted for seasonal variations like holidays or weather.
- The index can signal turning points in consumer demand earlier than adjusted data.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' retail sales index tracks the monthly changes in the total value of sales by U.S. retailers without adjusting for seasonal factors.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This index provides a direct view of real-world consumer spending patterns, which can complement the seasonally adjusted data to give analysts a fuller understanding of economic conditions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects sales data from a sample of retail establishments to calculate this index.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Economists and policymakers use this index alongside the seasonally adjusted data to gain insights into consumer behavior and its implications for the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The index is published monthly, with a short lag time. As an unadjusted metric, it may exhibit more volatility than the seasonally adjusted data.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Grocery Stores
MRTSSM4451USS
Retail Sales: Electronics and Appliance Stores
MRTSSM443USN
E-Commerce Retail Sales as a Percent of Total Sales
ECOMPCTSA
Retail Sales: Fuel Dealers
MRTSSM45431USN
Retail Sales: Limited Service Eating Places
MRTSSM7222USN
Retail Inventories: General Merchandise Stores
MRTSIM452USS
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Not Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSIR441USN), retrieved from FRED.