Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Nondurable Goods Inventories/Sales Ratio
R424IRM163SCEN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
0.95
Year-over-Year Change
0.00%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Nondurable Goods Inventories/Sales Ratio measures the relationship between wholesale inventories and sales of nondurable goods. It is an important indicator of economic activity and supply chain dynamics.
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
This ratio tracks the level of inventories held by wholesale merchants relative to their sales of nondurable products. It provides insights into inventory management, demand forecasting, and supply chain efficiency within the wholesale trade sector.
Methodology
The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on surveys of merchant wholesalers.
Historical Context
Economists and policymakers monitor this ratio to gauge wholesale market conditions and anticipate future consumer and business demand.
Key Facts
- The ratio has ranged from 1.10 to 1.40 over the past decade.
- Higher ratios indicate wholesalers are holding more inventory relative to sales.
- The ratio is a leading indicator of future economic activity.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the ratio of inventories to sales for merchant wholesalers of nondurable goods, excluding manufacturers' sales branches and offices.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The inventories-to-sales ratio is an important indicator of supply chain dynamics and future economic activity. It provides insights into inventory management and demand forecasting within the wholesale trade sector.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on surveys of merchant wholesalers.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Economists and policymakers monitor this ratio to gauge wholesale market conditions and anticipate future consumer and business demand, which informs economic forecasting and policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published monthly with a typical delay of 6-8 weeks. There may be revisions to previously reported figures as more complete information becomes available.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Nondurable Goods Inventories/Sales Ratio (R424IRM163SCEN), retrieved from FRED.