Analysis
October 26, 2023
SMU Survey: Mill Lead Times Push Out Further
Written by Laura Miller
Mill lead times for flat-rolled products pushed out once again this week across the board, according to SMU’s steel buyers’ survey.
With extended lead times, no lack of demand, and an end in sight for the United Auto Workers’ (UAW) strike, mills have a strong hand to play. The current environment is supportive of recent sheet price increases, and more are likely to come, as evidenced by U.S. Steel’s $100-per-ton push announced today.

