Durable goods

Durable goods, or durables are a type of consumer goods that are typically expected to last for three years or more. Examples include appliances, automobiles, furniture, and electronics. These items are often more expensive than non-durable goods, such as food or clothing, and are considered a significant purchase for consumers. In economic statistics, durable goods are used as an indicator of consumer spending and overall economic activity.

They are particularly valuable as an indicator because consumers generally only feel confident enough to buy large-ticket durable items when they feel good about the economy or their personal finances. As such, durable goods orders are one of the first economic indicators to turn down when the economy begins to struggle.