United States steel plate prices are stable over the last two weeks. But mills are talking of a price increase in January 2019.
Mill lead times are averaging five to six weeks. Some mills are using controlled order entry for their orders.
To keep a small number of buyers from cornering the market, the controlled order entry system only allows purchases of steel based on a customer’s past purchasing amounts.
Domestic cut-to-length plate has remained at a seven-year high for over a month.
Some market participants believe that plate has peaked, because supply is coming up to demand. In fact, demand has remained high with no clear reason for prices to go down.
Anti-dumping And Countervailing Duties
On December 7, the US International Trade Commission (ITC) determined imported Chinese aluminum sheet caused injury to the domestic aluminum industry. The ITC ruling stated the Chinese dumped aluminum goods at prices 50-60% below fair value. Also, the Chinese provided subsidies to their aluminum producers at 46-116% of the value.
Ace Steel Supply works hard to read the steel market so we can offer a stable supply of what you need. Consider looking at a stocking program with us for even more benefits to your business.
Assure Your Business Stays Productive
By simply planning ahead and keeping what you need in stock, a stocking program assures we have what you need, ready to deliver on demand.
As a result, your business can stay productive, while locking in a fair price on material.
When you are ready to save time, money and make your steel buying easier, give us a call.
Call us if your company requires a secure supply of stainless sheet, aluminum sheet, cold-rolled sheet or galvanized sheet metal.