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    Market Data

    November 22, 2022

    Steel Mill Lead Times Remain Low

    Written by Brett Linton

    Steel mill lead times were mixed this week compared to our previous market check, with production times slightly shrinking for three products and marginally extending for two. Hot rolled, cold rolled, and galvanized lead times are now at or near multi-year lows.

    Lead times are down by an average of 0.2 weeks compared to one month ago. Following their peak in April, sheet lead times have been relatively stable since July/August. Plate lead times had gradually moved lower over the past six months, but slightly ticked up 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.

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