ISM Steel Buyers Survey

Written by: Sandy Williams

In the December ISM Steel Buyers Survey, 54.5 percent of respondents reported having inventory on hand to cover shipping levels for 1-2 month, 18.2 percent said 0-1 months and 27.3 percent for 2-3 months. Compared to levels 12 months ago, 36.4 percent said tons on hand were about the same as last year and 27.3 percent said tons at hand were up 10 percent or more. Receipts are expected by 63.6 percent to remain the same for the next three months and 27.3 percent expect a decrease. Inventory is keeping pace with demand for 63.6 percent of respondents and too high for 36.4 percent. More than half, 54.5 percent, of those surveyed expect to decrease inventory over the next six months while 36.4 percent expect to maintain current inventory levels.