In its latest report on manufacturers’ shipments, inventories and orders, the U.S. Census Bureau reported new orders for manufactured durable goods in July, up three consecutive months, increased $9.2 billion, or 4.1%, to $230.5 billion, revised from the previously published 4.2% increase. This followed a 1.6% June increase.

Transportation equipment, up five of the last six months, had the largest increase in new orders of $10.1 billion or 14.4% to $80.6 billion. Notable in this category was civilian aircraft with new orders of $19.6 billion, up 53.9% from $12.7 billion in June.

Shipments of manufactured durable goods in July, up four of the last five months, increased $5.7 billion, or 2.5%, to $230.7 billion, revised from the previously published 2.6% increase. This was at the highest level since the series was first published on a NAICS basis and followed a slight June decrease. Transportation equipment, also up four of the last five months, had the largest increase, $5.5 billion, or 8.6%, to $69.8 billion.

Year-to-date July durable goods shipments (not seasonally adjusted) were up 8.8% to $1,552.7 billion with gains in construction equipment, metalworking machinery, heavy-duty trucks and civilian aircraft of 31.1%, 22.2%, 26.8 and 25%, respectively.

To read the U.S. Census Bureau report, click here.