- Firm US domestic demand drives broad-based gains in scrap prices
- Healthy mill order books and tight inventories support US scrap prices
The RMDAS ferrous scrap index recorded an upward trend in 21 October 2026 compared with September. Shredded scrap prices increased by $28/t to $447/t, supported by firm domestic US conditions, healthy mill order books and below-normal scrap inventories. The prompt industrial composite scrap index rose by $23/t to $495/t, while HMS prices climbed by $27/t to $391/t.
Domestic US market conditions remained relatively firm, supported by healthy steel mill order books, below-normal scrap inventories and increased raw steel production. These factors provided support to domestic scrap prices.
However, softer export demand and planned steel mill maintenance towards year-end are expected to limit further price recovery. Overall, improved domestic market fundamentals supported October’s price increases, although weaker export demand and seasonal maintenance could moderate future gains.
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