ASTM A500 Structural Tubing Prices in the Midwest

Structural steel tubing is one of the most essential materials in modern construction and manufacturing. Among the various specifications, ASTM A500 is the most commonly used standard for cold-formed welded and seamless carbon steel structural tubing. It’s widely specified for structural applications including building frames, bridges, trailers, and industrial supports.

In the U.S. Midwest, where steel production and fabrication have long been key industries, ASTM A500 tubing is in constant demand. However, as many buyers know, prices can fluctuate depending on market conditions, section size, and mill availability. This article explores the current price range for ASTM A500 tubing in the Midwest, the factors influencing pricing, and how to get the best value for your project.

1. What Is ASTM A500 Structural Tubing?

ASTM A500 is the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) specification for cold-formed welded and seamless carbon steel tubing used in structural applications. It defines the chemical composition, mechanical properties, and dimensional tolerances of the material.

ASTM A500 tubing is typically available in:

• Round tubing

• Square tubing

• Rectangular tubing

These shapes are commonly used in:

• Structural framing and supports

• Bridges and buildings

• Trailer and truck frames

• Sign poles and columns

• Machinery frames and conveyors

The material is known for its strength, uniformity, and affordability, making it a reliable option for engineers and fabricators across the United States.

2. Grades of ASTM A500

ASTM A500 includes several grades — A, B, C, and D — each with slightly different mechanical properties.

The most widely used grade in the Midwest is ASTM A500 Grade B, which offers a good balance of strength, weldability, and cost efficiency. Grade C is preferred for high-strength structural designs where weight savings are important.

3. Why ASTM A500 Is Popular in the Midwest

The Midwest is home to several major steel producers, processors, and distributors — including Nucor, Steel Dynamics, ArcelorMittal, and Atlas Tube — as well as thousands of fabrication shops and OEMs. Because of this, A500 tubing is widely available in regional supply chains.

Its popularity stems from:

• Compliance with U.S. building codes

• Compatibility with standard fabrication processes

• Reliable mechanical properties

• Cost advantage over hot-rolled shapes

• Excellent availability from stock

Moreover, since the Midwest serves industries such as construction, agriculture, automotive, and logistics, A500 tubing is used in everything from steel buildings to farm equipment and transportation trailers.

4. ASTM A500 Tubing Price Range in the Midwest

Prices for ASTM A500 tubing depend heavily on size, wall thickness, grade, finish, and supplier. Based on current listings from Midwest steel suppliers such as Midwest Steel Supply, OnlineMetals, and AllMetals, the following estimates reflect typical retail and wholesale pricing.

Retail (cut-to-length, small quantity)

• Small square tubing (1½” × ¼”): $3.50 – $5.50 per lb

• Medium rectangular tubing (3″ × 1″ × ⅛”): $2.00 – $3.50 per lb

• Large heavy-wall sections: $1.50 – $3.00 per lb

Wholesale / Mill Run (bulk orders, full-length bars)

• Average: $850 – $1,200 per ton (USD)

• Larger orders (truckload quantities): as low as $0.90 – $1.50 per lb

These figures translate to roughly $1,800 – $2,400 per metric ton on a bulk supply basis, depending on the specific grade and dimensions.

5. Factors Affecting Price

Several variables drive the price of ASTM A500 tubing in the Midwest market:

a. Raw Material Costs

The cost of carbon steel depends on raw material inputs like iron ore, scrap steel, and energy prices. In 2024–2025, U.S. steel prices have remained moderate after sharp fluctuations during 2021–2022.

b. Wall Thickness and Dimensions

Thicker walls and larger dimensions require more steel, increasing both weight and cost per foot. Manufacturers charge based on weight, so heavier tubing is naturally more expensive.

c. Grade and Strength

A500 Grade C typically costs slightly more than Grade B due to its higher yield strength and tighter manufacturing tolerances.

d. Processing and Finish

Additional services like cutting, drilling, galvanizing, or priming can add 5–15% to the total cost.

e. Supply and Demand

Construction activity, infrastructure projects, and seasonal demand influence availability. During peak building months (spring–summer), prices tend to rise slightly.

f. Freight and Location

Freight costs in the Midwest are generally lower than coastal regions, given proximity to major steel mills. However, fuel costs and distance from distribution hubs can still affect delivered price.

6. Current Market Conditions (2025)

As of late 2025, steel prices in the U.S. have stabilized after several years of volatility. The supply chain has largely normalized post-pandemic, and domestic mills have increased output to meet demand from construction and renewable energy sectors.

In the Midwest, distributors report steady demand for structural tubing from:

• Warehouse and logistics facility construction

• Renewable energy projects (solar and wind)

• Agricultural and heavy equipment manufacturing

• Public infrastructure improvements

This steady demand has kept A500 tubing prices relatively firm, though slightly lower than their 2022 peaks. Buyers should expect moderate stability with small monthly adjustments linked to scrap steel market movements.

7. Where to Buy ASTM A500 Tubing in the Midwest

Numerous regional suppliers stock ASTM A500 tubing in standard and custom sizes. Prominent distributors include:

• Midwest Steel Supply (Minneapolis, MN)
  Offers square and rectangular tubing in ASTM A500 Grade B, available cut-to-length or by full bar.

• Metals Depot / OnlineMetals
  Ideal for small quantities and quick ship orders, though retail prices are higher per pound.

• Ryerson (Chicago, IL)
  Major national distributor with extensive Midwest inventory and custom processing options.

• Infra-Metals / Nucor Tubular Products
  Large-volume mill direct options for OEMs and fabricators.

When purchasing, always specify:

• Grade (B or C)

• Shape (square, rectangular, or round)

• Wall thickness and size

• Length and finish

• Required certifications (e.g., mill test report)

8. Tips for Getting the Best Price

1. Order Full Lengths: Buying standard 20′ or 24′ lengths minimizes cutting waste and reduces cost per foot.

2. Buy in Bulk: Combining multiple sizes into one shipment can reduce freight and handling fees.

3. Request Mill Certificates: Ensure material traceability and ASTM compliance.

4. Compare Local vs. National Suppliers: Local suppliers may offer better shipping rates and faster turnaround.

5. Time Your Purchase: Steel prices often dip during the winter construction slowdown.

6. Ask for Volume Discounts: Many suppliers offer tiered pricing based on total weight or tonnage.

9. ASTM A500 vs. Other Tubing Standards

Buyers sometimes compare A500 with alternatives like ASTM A513 or ASTM A252. Here’s how they differ:

For most structural applications, A500 is the preferred choice due to its strength-to-weight ratio and weldability.

10. Conclusion

The Midwest remains one of the most competitive regions in North America for sourcing ASTM A500 structural tubing. Local steel mills, robust logistics, and strong manufacturing demand keep prices both stable and accessible.

As of 2025, typical Midwest prices range from $850 to $1,200 per ton for bulk orders, with higher retail costs for small cuts or special finishes. Buyers can minimize costs by purchasing in volume, selecting standard sizes, and comparing regional suppliers.

Whether you’re building an industrial warehouse, fabricating machinery, or manufacturing trailers, ASTM A500 tubing provides the durability, precision, and cost-effectiveness needed for long-term structural integrity. Keeping an eye on market trends, freight rates, and mill availability will help ensure your project stays on budget and on schedule.