Retail Sales: GAFO (General Merchandise Normally Sold in Department Stores)
Millions of Dollars, Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSSM4400CUSS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
133,011.00
Year-over-Year Change
2.92%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator measures monthly retail sales in the U.S. motor vehicle and parts dealers industry, adjusted for seasonal variations. It is a key metric for assessing consumer demand and the health of the automotive sector.
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 Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers (NAICS 441) retail sales series tracks the dollar value of merchandise sold through motor vehicle and parts dealers establishments. This provides insights into consumer spending patterns and automotive industry performance.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of a sample of businesses.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts closely monitor motor vehicle sales to gauge consumer confidence and economic conditions.
Key Facts
- Motor vehicle sales account for over 20% of total U.S. retail trade.
- Vehicle sales are a leading indicator of economic health and consumer confidence.
- The data is released monthly, around 15 days after the end of the reference period.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This indicator measures the monthly dollar value of retail sales by U.S. motor vehicle and parts dealers, adjusted for seasonal variations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Motor vehicle sales are a key indicator of consumer spending and automotive industry performance, providing insights into economic conditions and consumer confidence.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of a sample of businesses in the motor vehicle and parts dealers industry.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts closely monitor motor vehicle sales to assess consumer demand, gauge the health of the automotive sector, and evaluate broader economic conditions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released by the Census Bureau approximately 15 days after the end of the reference month.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Women's Clothing Stores
MRTSSM44812USN
Retail Inventories: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores
MRTSIM448USN
Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Food and Beverage Stores
MRTSIR445USS
Retail Sales: Restaurants and Other Eating Places
MRTSSM7225USN
Advance Retail Sales: Nonstore Retailers
RSNSR
Monthly State Retail Sales: Total Retail Sales Excluding Nonstore Retailers in the United States
MSRSUSATOTAL
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Millions of Dollars, Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSSM4400CUSS), retrieved from FRED.