Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Durable Goods: Motor Vehicle and Motor Vehicle Parts and Supplies Sales
P4231MM157SCEN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-0.70
Year-over-Year Change
-800.00%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures sales of durable goods by merchant wholesalers, specifically in the motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts and supplies industry. It provides insight into wholesale trade activity and distribution within the automotive supply chain.
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 Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Durable Goods: Motor Vehicle and Motor Vehicle Parts and Supplies Sales series tracks the monthly total sales revenue for merchant wholesalers that distribute durable automotive goods. This data is used by economists to analyze wholesale trade conditions and assess the health of the broader automotive industry.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of merchant wholesalers conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
This economic indicator is closely watched by policymakers, analysts, and businesses as a barometer of automotive supply chain activity and consumer demand.
Key Facts
- Motor vehicle and parts wholesalers account for over 20% of total merchant wholesaler sales.
- Wholesale durable goods sales have exceeded $600 billion per month since 2021.
- The automotive industry is a key driver of the U.S. economy, representing over 3% of GDP.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the monthly sales revenue for merchant wholesalers of durable goods in the motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts and supplies industry.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This indicator provides insight into wholesale trade conditions and the overall health of the automotive supply chain, which is a critical sector of the U.S. economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The 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 closely monitor this indicator as a barometer of automotive industry activity and consumer demand, which informs economic and policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released on a monthly basis with a typical 1-2 month lag, and may be subject to periodic revisions by the Census Bureau.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Durable Goods: Motor Vehicle and Motor Vehicle Parts and Supplies Sales (P4231MM157SCEN), retrieved from FRED.