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    Market Data

    December 5, 2024

    SMU Survey: Mill lead times tick higher

    Written by Brett Linton

    Buyers participating in our latest market survey reported a slight uptick in mill lead times for both sheet and plate steel products. Production times are marginally higher than those seen in recent weeks, now closer to levels witnessed back in October.  

    Average lead times for hot-rolled steel are now just under five weeks. Tandem products are hovering around the high-six/low-seven week mark. Plate lead times average just over four weeks. Overall, lead times this week are not far above the lows seen in mid-July and mid-November.

    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.

    Read more from Brett Linton

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