Manufacturers' Inventories to Shipments Ratios: Transportation Equipment

A36SIS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1.90

Year-over-Year Change

-2.56%

Date Range

1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025

Summary

The Manufacturers' Inventories to Shipments Ratios: Transportation Equipment measures the ratio of inventories to shipments in the transportation equipment manufacturing sector. This metric is a key indicator of supply chain dynamics and economic conditions.

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 compares the level of inventories held by transportation equipment manufacturers to the value of their shipments. It provides insight into production planning, demand forecasting, and inventory management within this important industrial sector.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of manufacturing establishments.

Historical Context

Policymakers and analysts monitor this ratio to assess the health of the transportation manufacturing industry and broader economic trends.

Key Facts

  • Transportation equipment is a major component of U.S. manufacturing.
  • This ratio reached a record high during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Elevated inventory levels can signal production cutbacks or weakening demand.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Manufacturers' Inventories to Shipments Ratios: Transportation Equipment measures the ratio of inventories held by transportation equipment manufacturers to the value of their shipments.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This ratio provides insight into production planning, demand forecasting, and inventory management within the transportation equipment manufacturing sector, which is a key component of the U.S. economy.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of manufacturing establishments.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and analysts monitor this ratio to assess the health of the transportation manufacturing industry and broader economic trends.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is published monthly with a lag, and may be subject to revisions as more complete information becomes available.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Manufacturers' Inventories to Shipments Ratios: Transportation Equipment (A36SIS), retrieved from FRED.