Sectoral Output for Transportation and Warehousing: Postal Service (NAICS 491) in the United States

IPUIN491T301000000 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

-3.00

Year-over-Year Change

-43.40%

Date Range

1/1/1988 - 1/1/2024

Summary

The Sectoral Output for Transportation and Warehousing: Postal Service (NAICS 491) measures the production output of the U.S. postal service industry. This metric is a key indicator of economic activity and productivity in the transportation and logistics 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

This industrial production index tracks the monthly output volume of establishments primarily engaged in postal service activities, such as the collection, transportation, and delivery of mail. It is a valuable gauge of the health and performance of the U.S. postal industry.

Methodology

The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve based on survey responses from businesses in the postal service industry.

Historical Context

The Postal Service Output index is closely monitored by policymakers, logistics companies, and economic analysts to assess trends in the transportation and distribution sectors.

Key Facts

  • The Postal Service industry accounts for over $70 billion in annual revenue in the U.S.
  • The Postal Service employs over 600,000 workers, making it one of the largest employers in the country.
  • Over 150 billion pieces of mail are delivered by the U.S. Postal Service each year.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Sectoral Output for Transportation and Warehousing: Postal Service (NAICS 491) measures the monthly production output of establishments primarily engaged in postal service activities in the United States.

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

A: This metric is a key indicator of economic activity and productivity in the transportation and logistics sector, and is closely monitored by policymakers, logistics companies, and economic analysts.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve based on survey responses from businesses in the postal service industry.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The Postal Service Output index is used by policymakers and analysts to assess trends in the transportation and distribution sectors, which are crucial for the broader economy.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Postal Service Output data is released monthly by the Federal Reserve, with a typical delay of several weeks.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Sectoral Output for Transportation and Warehousing: Postal Service (NAICS 491) in the United States (IPUIN491T301000000), retrieved from FRED.