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    Analysis

    July 24, 2025

    SMU Survey: Mill lead times remain short

    Written by Brett Linton

    Steel mill lead times on sheet products contracted across the board this week compared to early July, while plate production times moderately extended, according to steel buyers responding to this week’s market survey.

    Sheet lead times have remained relatively stable over the past month, holding near some of the shortest levels recorded since late 2023. Recall that back in May, lead times for all sheet products fell to multi-year lows. The average lead time for hot-rolled coil is now just under four and a half weeks, while cold-rolled and coated products are in the low six-week range.

    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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