ISM Factory Index Shows Expansion

U.S. manufacturing levels expanded in June for the first time in five months, the Institute for Supply Management said Tuesday.

ISM’s factory index improved to 50.2, from 49.6 in May, ISM said. Readings above 50 indicate expansion, while below that show contraction.

The level was better than economists’ forecasts of a 48.5 reading, Bloomberg reported.

The production index improved 0.3% to 51.5, while new orders dipped 0.1% to 49.6, ISM said. Prices jumped 4.5% to a reading of 91.5.

The factory sector is one of trucking’s largest and most important customers.