SMU Survey: Mill lead times remain stable and short

Steel buyers participating in our market survey this week reported stable mill lead times for both sheet and plate steel products. Production times are similar to those around the start of the month, though slightly shorter than levels witnessed three months ago.

Average lead times for hot-rolled steel generally remain in the mid-four-week range. Tandem product lead times are hovering around six and a half to seven weeks. Plate lead times average just under four weeks. Overall, lead times remain near some of the shortest levels seen this year.

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.