Nucor Hot-Rolled Coil Price Cuts: What You Need to Know

Post Views: 10

Nucor Lowers Hot-Rolled Coil Prices by $10 per Ton in July 2025 — Nucor hot-rolled coil

Nucor Adjusts Hot-Rolled Coil Prices Following Market Stabilization

Nucor, a leading US steel producer, lowered its hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices by $10 per short ton for the week of July 21-27, 2025. This 1.1% reduction sets the price at $900/t across most facilities, except California Steel Industries (CSI), where prices dropped to $960/t. This adjustment follows two weeks of price stabilization after steady rates earlier in July. The company’s last price cut occurred in late May during significant market pressure.

Since early 2025, Nucor’s HRC prices peaked at $935/t ($995/t for CSI) in late March and remained near this level through mid-April. The current price reduction reflects a careful response to recent market trends and ongoing fluctuations in supply and demand.

Market Dynamics Influence Nucor’s Hot-Rolled Coil Pricing Strategy

The US hot-rolled coil market demonstrated growth in June, with prices climbing 1.1% to $986.6/t ex-works, driven partly by increased import tariffs under Section 232. The Trump administration’s move to double steel import duties to 50% supported domestic price rises by limiting foreign competition.

Meanwhile, competitors like Cleveland-Cliffs raised July HRC offers by $40/t, pricing at $950/t. Nucor’s moderate price cut contrasts with these hikes, signaling its strategic positioning to maintain market share amid shifting policy and demand conditions. The current lead time for HRC orders sits between 3 to 5 weeks, indicating balanced supply.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Nucor’s $10/t price reduction in July 2025 marks a tactical adjustment within a volatile US steel market. While import tariffs have bolstered domestic prices, Nucor balances competitiveness with margin management. The firm’s decision to lower prices slightly, despite political protections, suggests caution amid demand uncertainty and global steel supply shifts. Industry watchers should monitor how tariffs and production strategies impact HRC pricing as 2025 progresses.