Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Durable Goods: Machinery, Equipment, and Supplies Sales
S4238SM144SCEN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
54,387.00
Year-over-Year Change
6.55%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures sales of machinery, equipment, and supplies by merchant wholesalers, excluding manufacturers' sales branches and offices. It provides insight into the wholesale trade sector and broader industrial activity.
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 Machinery, Equipment, and Supplies Sales metric tracks the total value of shipments and sales for a key segment of the wholesale trade industry. It is used by economists and policymakers to monitor business investment, industrial production, and the health of the wholesale distribution channel.
Methodology
This data is collected through monthly surveys of merchant wholesalers by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Trends in wholesale trade sales are closely watched as indicators of overall economic conditions and business spending.
Key Facts
- Wholesale trade accounts for about 6% of U.S. GDP.
- Machinery and equipment sales make up over 30% of total wholesale trade.
- This metric has declined during recent recessions.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This metric measures the total value of sales and shipments of machinery, equipment, and supplies by merchant wholesalers, excluding manufacturers' sales branches and offices.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Trends in wholesale trade sales, especially for capital goods like machinery, are closely watched as indicators of overall economic conditions and business investment.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: This data is collected through monthly surveys of merchant wholesalers conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this metric to monitor the health of the wholesale trade sector and broader industrial activity, which informs decisions around monetary and fiscal policy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: This data is released with a 1-2 month lag and may be subject to revisions as more complete information becomes available.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Durable Goods: Machinery, Equipment, and Supplies Sales (S4238SM144SCEN), retrieved from FRED.