SMU Price Ranges & Indices: Flat Rolled Up Another $10-20

Flat rolled steel prices increased by another $10-20 per ton in the past week as demand continues to outpace the tight supplies, lead times remain extended and there’s limited competition from imports. Only about one-quarter of the steel buyers polled this week believe prices are near a peak. So, with scrap prices expected to move sideways to slightly higher in November, the uptrend looks likely to continue for a while. Plate prices have not seen much movement despite the recent mill price increases. SMU estimates the benchmark price for hot rolled at $685 per ton this week. SMU’s Price Momentum Indicator continues to point toward higher flat rolled prices over the next 30 days.

Here is how we see prices this week:

Brett Linton

Brett Linton is a digital operations analyst for Steel Market Update, where he began his career. Linton has been in the steel industry since 2010. He has held roles as a category manager and strategic insights director at Reibus before returning to SMU in 2024. He is a graduate of The University of North Georgia with a degree in Finance and Accounting. Brett can be reached at brett@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-314-0179.

Brett Linton

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