Freight class for steel sheets, bars, and coils
Shipping steel products—whether sheets, bars, or coils—requires understanding freight classification to ensure accurate shipping costs, proper handling, and compliance with carrier regulations. Misclassifying freight can result in delays, unexpected charges,...
How EV manufacturing will change metal demand
The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming the automotive industry—and with it, the global demand for metals. Traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles rely heavily on steel, aluminum, and...
How to prioritize work orders during material shortages
Material shortages can disrupt production, delay customer orders, and increase costs. When steel, aluminum, copper, or other critical materials are in short supply, businesses must make tough decisions about which...
Optimizing your cut-to-length line
A cut-to-length (CTL) line is a critical part of metal processing, transforming coiled sheet metal into precise, flat-cut sheets for manufacturing and fabrication. Whether you’re working with steel, aluminum, or...
Seasonal demand forecasting in construction and manufacturing
Seasonal demand fluctuations are a major challenge in the construction and manufacturing industries. Material shortages, labor constraints, and shifting customer orders can cause delays and cost overruns if businesses aren’t...
The role of manganese in steel strength
Steel is one of the most widely used materials in the world, found in everything from skyscrapers and bridges to cars and household appliances. But did you know that steel’s...
Understanding steel tempering and heat treatment
Steel is one of the most widely used materials in construction, manufacturing, and engineering, but raw steel often lacks the strength, hardness, or flexibility needed for demanding applications. That’s where...
What is pickling and oiling (P&O) and why customers request it
When purchasing steel, you may come across the term Pickled and Oiled (P&O). This finishing process improves the surface quality and corrosion resistance of hot-rolled steel, making it more suitable...
When to expect seasonal dips in steel demand
Steel is one of the most essential materials in industries like construction, automotive, manufacturing, and infrastructure. However, steel demand doesn’t remain constant throughout the year—it experiences seasonal fluctuations influenced by...
Why mills offer pattern sizes and what that means
Ever wondered why steel mills, aluminum manufacturers, and other metal producers offer standard pattern sizes instead of completely custom dimensions? If you’ve ever ordered raw materials for a project, you...
