Tire manufacturers aren't in the business of storing tires. And tire dealers aren't in the business (successfully) throwing out inventory. I would think a tire a year old or so is fine, but the problem is if you don't check you won't know. And I think most business try to clear the oldest stock first. Please view that video Darl-Wilson posted the link to. There is a reason why you are hearing a number of us warn you. You won't see 'visible cracking' on an old tire until after it has been mounted and you drive away; in my case, in less than a month, when I went to clean and polish the rims, and I said "What the f....?". Take the benefit of these responses, even though it's free. It is right on the money.