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    Market Data

    April 21, 2026

    SMU Price Ranges: Sheet and plate move higher

    Written by Brett Linton

    Each of SMU’s sheet and plate price indices climbed higher this week, with most products rising further to new multi-year highs. Sheet prices increased between $10-20 per short ton (st) from last week, while plate inched up $5/st. Prices are $35-40/st higher than they were one month ago.

    Buyers report that the market continues to move higher with no signs of softening anytime soon. Drivers include better-than-expected demand, extended mill lead times coupled with late deliveries, and expectations for future outages. Imports remain low, while higher fuel and freight costs add additional pressure to prices.

    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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