Demand for U.S. durable goods jumped more than expected in July, according to data published by the Commerce Department. Total orders for durable goods—which comprise goods meant to last three years or more—increased in July by 1.1% to $339.3 billion, compared with a 0.5% increase in June. Economists polled by The Wall Street Journal had expected an increase of 0.5%.

Transportation equipment led the charge, rising 2.3% after falling the prior two months. New orders were up 0.4% excluding transportation, and up 1.3% when excluding defense, the Commerce Department said.

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