Manufacturers' Shipments, Primary Metals, Total for United States

M06120USM144NNBR • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

3,188.00

Year-over-Year Change

-4.75%

Date Range

1/1/1953 - 12/1/1965

Summary

This indicator tracks the total value of shipments by U.S. manufacturers in the primary metals industry. It is an important measure of industrial activity and economic health.

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 Manufacturers' Shipments, Primary Metals, Total for United States series measures the total value of shipments by manufacturers in the primary metals industry, which includes iron, steel, aluminum, and other metal production. This data provides insight into the state of domestic manufacturing and industrial output.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of manufacturing establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Historical Context

Analysts and policymakers monitor this metric to gauge the strength of the manufacturing sector and broader economic conditions.

Key Facts

  • The primary metals industry accounts for over $500 billion in annual shipments.
  • Shipments reached a record high of $59.7 billion in November 2021.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp decline in primary metals shipments in 2020.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This indicator tracks the total value of shipments by U.S. manufacturers in the primary metals industry, which includes iron, steel, aluminum, and other metal production.

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

A: This metric provides insight into the state of domestic manufacturing and industrial output, which are key drivers of economic growth and important for analysts and policymakers to monitor.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of manufacturing establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Analysts and policymakers monitor this metric to gauge the strength of the manufacturing sector and broader economic conditions, which informs policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released on a monthly basis with a typical 4-week delay from the end of the reference period.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Manufacturers' Shipments, Primary Metals, Total for United States (M06120USM144NNBR), retrieved from FRED.