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Heavy Melting Scrap (hms) Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 11191600
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⟳ Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026
  • Commodity Pricing

heavy melting scrap (hms) Price Trends by Country

nlNetherlands
usUnited States
trTurkey

Global heavy melting scrap (hms) Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price Watch’s most active coverage of Heavy melt scrap price assessment:

North America

  • Heavy melt scrap, Del Chicago, USA


Europe

  • Heavy melt scrap, FOB Rotterdam, Netherlands
  • Heavy melt scrap, EX Iskenderun, Turkey


Note: In assessments structured as CIF [Importing Port] (Exporting Country), the country mentioned in brackets indicates the primary origin of supply (exporting country), while the named port refers to the destination port in the importing country. Other Incoterms (FOB, FD, EXW, etc.) should be interpreted in accordance with standard international trade definitions.

Heavy melt scrap Price Trend Q4 2025

In Q4 2025, the global Heavy Melt Scrap market showed a mixed trend, reflecting regional differences in supply and demand. While some major steelmaking regions saw moderate price stabilization due to selective purchasing by electric arc furnace (EAF) producers, other areas experienced slight declines as finished steel demand remained soft. Import dependent markets faced variable price pressures from competitive international offers and fluctuating freight costs, prompting cautious buying behaviour. Regions with strong domestic scrap collection saw moderate upward corrections, supported by steady local demand, whereas areas with tighter supply experienced higher premiums. Overall, the market displayed a patchwork of price movements, with short term inventory management and selective procurement shaping a nuanced sentiment heading into early 2026.

Netherlands: Heavy melt scrap Export prices, FOB Rotterdam, Netherlands; Grade – HMS 1&2 (80:20)

In Q4 2025, Heavy Melt Scrap prices in the Netherlands increased by 3.52% compared to Q3 2025, reflecting a moderately bullish market amid steady demand. Steel mills and downstream manufacturers gradually ramped up purchases to replenish moderate inventories, supported by expectations of stable finished steel demand. Domestic scrap collection and consistent import inflows ensured sufficient supply, allowing processors to operate normally while benefiting from slightly stronger market activity. Spot transactions remained active through December 2025, and cautious optimism among buyers, along with limited export interest, contributed to upward price momentum. Overall, the Heavy Melt Scrap market in the Netherlands experienced a modest quarterly price rise, driven by improving demand dynamics against balanced supply conditions as the market moved into early 2026.

USA: Heavy melt scrap Export prices, Del Chicago, USA; Grade – HMS 1&2 (80:20)

In Q4 2025, heavy melt scrap prices in the USA declined by 3.49% compared to Q3 2025, reflecting a modest softening in the domestic ferrous scrap market as overall sentiment remained cautious. Demand from steel mills and downstream construction and manufacturing sectors eased toward year end, while steady supply from industrial and demolition sources ensured ample material availability, putting mild downward pressure on prices. Upstream scrap flows remained consistent due to ongoing collection rates and efficient recycling operations across major hubs, and mills adopted selective purchasing strategies, adjusting procurement volumes in line with slower finished steel orders and inventory priorities. Export demand offered limited support due to competitive global pricing and fluctuating freight dynamics. By December 2025, prices softened further as mills scaled back buying ahead of year end maintenance and holiday slowdowns, while stable yard inventories and competitive supplier offers contributed to the quarterly decline in the U.S. heavy melt scrap market heading into early 2026.

Turkey: Heavy melt scrap Export prices, EX Iskenderun, Turkey; Grade – HMS 1&2 (80:20)

In Q4 2025, the Turkish heavy melt scrap (HMS) market saw a modest price increase of 1.57% compared with Q3 2025, supported by gradually improving demand from rebar and structural steel producers. While overall downstream activity remained moderate, mills cautiously restocked amid hopes of stronger construction and long steel consumption toward year end. Supply was relatively tight due to seasonal variations in scrap generation and imported volumes from Europe and the U.S., while freight and logistics costs limited downward price pressure. As a result, HMS prices edged higher in October–December, reflecting firm seller sentiment and controlled import flows. The market entered early 2026 with stable supply conditions and cautious optimism, underpinned by steady demand, adequate inventories, and moderate price support.

Heavy Melting Scrap (HMS) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2025

As of Q3 2025, Heavy Melting Scrap (HMS) prices on the global market have been on a downward trend, influenced by a weak demand environment created by steelmakers, an oversupply of scrap, and competition from alternative raw materials such as DRI and billet. Significant price declines month on month noted in Turkey and the EU, where the price drop for Turkish import scrap has been about 2.2% in September.

The rise in freight costs, currency volatility, and weak construction activity have exerted additional pressure on scrap prices. Unless there is a solid recovery in demand or a dislocation of supply, Heavy Melting Scrap prices are likely to remain under downward pressure until the end of the quarter.

USA: Heavy Melt Scrap Domestically Traded Heavy Melt Scrap price, DEL Alabama, the US, Grade- 1&2 (80:20).

According to PriceWatch, in Q3 2025, the heavy melt scrap (HMS) price trend in U.S. market experienced a 1.78% decrease in prices compared to Q2, driven by softer demand from steel mills, tighter margins, and stable to slightly oversupplied scrap availability. The heavy melt scrap (HMS) price trend showed a mild but steady decline, reflecting cautious buying behaviour and limited export opportunities.

While supply remained relatively consistent, slowing downstream steel production and minimal export demand weighed on pricing. Regional dynamics and mill inventories influenced localized variations, but overall, the market remained stable with no sharp volatility, suggesting a correction rather than a downturn.

The 2.11% decrease in Heavy Melt scrap prices in the USA during September 2025 can be attributed to weaker demand from domestic steel mills amid slower construction activity. Additionally, increased scrap supply from demolition projects may have further pressured prices downward.

Netherlands: Heavy Melt Scrap Export prices FOB Rotterdam, Netherlands, Grade- 1&2 (80:20).

The heavy melt scrap price trend in the Netherlands for Q3 2025 indicated a 2.25% decrease from Q2. The decline has been tied to sustained weak demand for heavy melt scrap in the steel sector, as well as high levels of inventories and limited amounts of exporting, especially to Turkey. Heavy melt scrap inventories continue to grow, with high collection rates from the supply side, resulting in an oversupply within the local market, which weighs heavily on the scrap price.

Additionally, because Dutch merchants are major players in international scrap exports, an overall decline in demand for heavy melt scrap globally directly affects the Netherlands prices. Unless there is higher demand or stimulus policies, there has been a caution to notate a bearish attitude in the heavy melt scrap market as Q4 begins.

Heavy Melt Scrap prices in the Netherlands declined by 0.51% in September 2025, the factors leading to this decrease have been tied to the lack of demand from steel mills in the Netherlands due to slowing construction activity. Furthermore, the increased supply of heavy melt scrap from the domestic recycling sector contributed to the downward pressure on prices.

Turkey: Heavy Melt Scrap Domestically Traded Heavy Melt Scrap price, Ex-Iskenderun, Turkey, Grade- 1&2 (80:20).

In Q3 2025, the heavy melt scrap price trend in Turkey has shown a moderate decline of approximately 2.27% compared to Q2, driven by continued weak domestic steel demand, oversupply in the scrap market, and competition from billet imports. Despite this downward pressure, prices are unlikely to fall sharply as sellers resist deep cuts and mills maintain cautious buying amid subdued rebar and construction activity.

Overall, the market outlook remains soft but stable, with limited downside risk unless there is a sudden shift in steel demand or external factors impacting supply and cost dynamics. The 0.95% decrease in Heavy Melt scrap prices in Turkey in September 2025 can be attributed to weakened demand from local steel mills amid slowing construction activity and increased availability of cheaper scrap imports. Additionally, global economic uncertainty and currency fluctuations may have exerted downward pressure on scrap metal pricing.

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, heavy melt scrap (HMS) prices dropped by $311.76 per metric ton, FOB Rotterdam a 1.65% decrease, driven by geopolitical tensions and tariff shifts. Conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East disrupted steel production and trade, reducing demand from key importers.

At the same time, major economies like the U.S. and EU imposed new tariffs to protect domestic steel industries, discouraging international scrap purchases and contributing to regional oversupply. Additionally, sluggish industrial recovery in China and logistical challenges, including elevated freight costs and port delays, weakened global demand further.

These factors combined to create a bearish market sentiment, leading to the sharp price decline despite seasonal construction demand that typically supports scrap consumption in the second quarter. The market remains cautious, with traders closely watching for policy shifts or de-escalation in geopolitical hotspots that could stabilize demand and pricing moving into Q3 2025. 

In the first quarter of 2025, the heavy melting scrap (HMS) market experienced a notable downturn, with prices declining by $317.68 per metric ton, FOB Rotterdam representing a 1.43% decrease. This reduction reflects a combination of softening global demand, particularly from major steel-producing countries facing slower economic activity and reduced construction output.

Additionally, oversupply in certain regions, coupled with fluctuating energy costs and logistical challenges, contributed to downward pressure on prices. The modest percentage change suggests that while the absolute price drop was significant, the market remains relatively stable in broader historical terms, signalling potential resilience or stabilization in the upcoming quarters. 

Heavy Melting Scrap (HMS) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the heavy melting scrap market is experiencing a notable decline, with prices dropping by $322.28 per metric ton, FOB Rotterdam representing a 5.41% decrease compared to the previous quarter. This downward trend may reflect a combination of factors such as reduced demand from steel producers, increased availability of scrap materials, or broader economic pressures impacting the metals industry.

The price decline could influence steel manufacturing costs, potentially easing input expenses but also signalling cautious market sentiment. Stakeholders should closely monitor supply chain dynamics and global steel demand to anticipate further shifts in heavy melting scrap pricing going forward. 

In Q3 2024, the heavy melting scrap market experienced a notable price decline, dropping by $340.71 per metric ton, FOB Rotterdam which equates to a 2.63% decrease compared to the previous quarter. This reduction reflects weakening demand pressures in the steel recycling sector, possibly influenced by slower industrial activity and cautious market sentiment amid global economic uncertainties.

The price adjustment suggests that suppliers may be facing increased inventory levels or reduced purchasing from steel mills, impacting overall scrap valuation. Stakeholders should monitor raw material sourcing strategies closely and anticipate potential further fluctuations as market conditions evolve. 

In Q2 2024, the market for Heavy Melting Scrap (HMS) experienced a notable downturn, with prices declining by $349.93 per metric ton, FOB Rotterdam representing a 5.66% drop. This decrease reflects weakening global demand, particularly from key steel-producing regions facing slower industrial output and cautious inventory management amid economic uncertainties.

Contributing factors include softening raw material demand from major importers like Türkiye and India, as well as increased availability of domestic scrap in some regions, which reduced reliance on imports. Additionally, global coordination improvements and lower freight costs may have pressured HMS prices further, intensifying the downward trend during the quarter. 

In Q1 2024, the price trend of Heavy Melting Scrap (HMS) saw a notable increase of $370.93 per metric ton, FOB Rotterdam representing a 7.89% rise from the previous period. This surge was primarily driven by strong demand in the steel manufacturing sector, especially in emerging markets, coupled with constrained global supply due to logistical disruptions and tighter scrap collection regulations in key exporting countries.

Additionally, energy costs remained elevated, contributing to higher overall production expenses and further pressuring scrap prices. The price hike also reflects increased speculative interest and a global shift toward more sustainable steel production using recycled inputs, reinforcing the upward momentum in HMS valuations. 

Technical Specifications of Heavy Melting Scrap (hms) Price Trends

Product Description

Heavy Melting Scrap (HMS) is a category of recyclable ferrous metal primarily composed of iron and steel. Commonly classified into HMS 1 and HMS 2 based on composition and density, it is widely used in steel production and foundry applications. HMS serves as a vital raw material for electric arc furnaces and induction furnaces, helping in the manufacturing of new steel products. Known for its high density and minimal impurities, heavy melting scrap contributes to sustainable metal recycling practices in the construction, automotive, and manufacturing industries.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • HS Code – 720449


Heavy Melt Scrap Synonyms:

  • Heavy Melting Steel
  • Recyclable Steel Scrap
  • Wrought Iron Scrap
  • Mixed Heavy Steel Scrap


Heavy Melt Scrap Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • 1&2 (80:20)


Heavy Melt Scrap Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 25-30 MT and 25-30 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): Container


Incoterms Referenced in Heavy Melt Scrap Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Rotterdam  Netherlands  Heavy Melt Scrap Export price from Netherlands 
Del Chicago  USA  Domestically Traded Heavy Melt Scrap price in USA 
Ex Iskenderun  Turkey  Domestically Traded Heavy Melt Scrap price in Turkey 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the Heavy Melt Scrap being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for Heavy Melt Scrap packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.

Key Heavy Melt Scrap Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
Addi 
Sova Udyog 
Guardian Castings Pvt. Ltd. 
Nucor Corporation 

Heavy Melting Scrap (hms) Industrial Applications

heavy melting scrap market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Heavy Melting Scrap (hms) prices

  • China Export Controls (2025): Restrictions and environmental quotas reduced exports by 40–50%, causing extreme global price jumps and regional market corrections.
  • Global Supply and Demand Acceleration (2023–2024): Rising feedstock costs, seasonal smelter maintenance, and stronger industrial demand in India and the USA drove Q2–Q3 price gains of approximately 18–28%.
  • COVID 19 Pandemic (2020): Lockdowns and operational disruptions at Chinese smelters caused supply shocks, leading to multiyear spot price highs worldwide.
  • Chinese Production Policies (2007–2008): Concentration of smelters and tighter export controls in China reduced output, creating global shortages and driving prices sharply higher.

These events underscore the heavy melt scrap market’s sensitivity to supply disruptions, industrial demand shifts, and geopolitical or policy interventions, highlighting the importance of monitoring both global supply and domestic consumption patterns.

Why Price Watch™?

Price Watch™ is your trusted resource for tracking global heavy melting scrap (hms) price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the heavy melting scrap (hms) market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, Price Watch™ keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, Price Watch™ provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With Price Watch™, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence heavy melting scrap (hms) prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with Price Watch’s™ reliable, accurate, and timely heavy melting scrap (hms) market data.

Track Price Watch's™ heavy melting scrap (hms) price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Heavy Melting Scrap (hms) Market Price Trend published by 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ reflect prevailing spot market conditions, derived from independent research, verified trade inputs, and proprietary market intelligence as of the publication date. Prices are published on the specified Incoterm and represent indicative base market levels, exclusive of applicable taxes, VAT, duties, tariffs, and other statutory charges. Actual transaction values may vary depending on volume, credit terms, contractual structure, and other negotiated conditions. Market prices are inherently subject to volatility, liquidity dynamics, regulatory changes, and evolving trade activity. The information provided is for reference and benchmarking purposes only and does not constitute an offer, recommendation, or guarantee of transactional outcomes. Users should exercise independent commercial judgment and assess their specific contractual, regulatory, tax, and application requirements before making business decisions. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ assumes no liability for decisions taken based on this information.

• Raw Material Availability – HMS is derived from discarded steel and iron scrap. The availability of obsolete scrap (from construction, demolition, and end-of-life products) affects supply and pricing.

• Global Supply and Demand – Demand from steel mills, especially in developing nations, can drive prices up. Oversupply due to increased collection or reduced demand will exert downward pressure.

• Steel Market Trends – HMS is a key input in electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking. Trends in finished steel prices and production rates directly impact scrap demand and prices.

• Energy and Processing Costs – Collection, sorting, cutting, and transportation of HMS require labour and energy. Increases in fuel or electricity prices can raise processing costs, influencing overall prices.

• Transportation and Logistics – Shipping costs, freight rates, port congestion, and logistical disruptions affect HMS pricing, especially in the global market.

• Regulatory and Environmental Policies – Government regulations on scrap recycling, environmental compliance, and export restrictions (e.g., bans or quotas) can alter market dynamics and pricing.

• Currency Exchange Rates – Since HMS is widely traded internationally, fluctuations in exchange rates (especially against the US dollar, which is commonly used in trading) can affect pricing in local markets.

• Geopolitical Factors – Conflicts, trade wars, and sanctions can disrupt scrap flows or affect global confidence, impacting pricing volatility.

• Seasonality – Harsh weather conditions (e.g., winter in northern countries) can slow down scrap collection and transportation, tightening supply and influencing prices.

The availability and cost of raw materials such as high-carbon steel and alloy coatings directly affect heavy melting scrap production costs and pricing.

Heavy melting scrap prices generally rise with inflation, as higher energy, transportation, and labor costs increase the overall cost of recycling and processing scrap metal. However, global steel demand and supply chain dynamics often play a more significant role in influencing HMS prices, which can moderate or amplify the impact of inflation.

PriceWatch offers a range of tools and services to track commodity prices effectively:

Real-Time Data: Access market intelligence and data on global heavy melting scrap supply chains.

Expert Analysis: Insights into market trends and potential risks.

Risk Assessment: Tools to evaluate supply chain vulnerabilities.

Benchmarking: Compare heavy melting scrap prices and sourcing practices.

Supplier Intelligence: Information on supplier reliability and financial health.

Heavy Melt Scrap is a form of recycled steel consisting of thick, dense pieces from old steel products, structural steel, industrial equipment, and manufacturing offcuts, valued for its high iron content, low contamination, and consistent chemical composition. It is primarily used in electric arc furnaces and basic oxygen furnaces to produce steel efficiently, contributing to molten steel without excessive fluxing. Heavy melt scrap supports industries such as construction, automotive, machinery, and infrastructure, while its supply and pricing are influenced by global steel demand, scrap collection efficiency, and import/export regulations. As steelmakers increasingly focus on energy efficient production and recycled content, heavy melt scrap remains a critical resource in sustainable steelmaking and the circular economy, with Price Watch™ tracking its price trends to inform businesses about supply, industrial demand, trade policies, and market dynamics.

Heavy Melt scrap prices vary by region and market conditions. Prices are typically quoted per metric ton or per pound and fluctuate based on global supply, import/export flows, industrial demand, and currency exchange rates. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ provides real time price assessments across different global markets to help buyers and sellers make informed decisions.

Prices fluctuate due to changes in Chinese production, environmental regulations, seasonal smelter maintenance, feedstock availability, and demand from pharmaceuticals, electronics, and alloys. Exchange rates, logistics costs, and global economic conditions also influence trends.

Major consumers include pharmaceuticals, electronics, metallurgy, chemical & pigment industries, and research/specialty materials. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ analyses demand patterns across all these industries.

Heavy melt scrap is obtained from end of life ferrous metal products such as structural steel components, ship hulls, railway tracks, and industrial machinery. It consists of solid, dense pieces of steel or iron, which are prepared through dismantling, cutting, and careful sorting to remove non metallic materials, oils, and coatings. The resulting high quality, uniform scrap is ideal for direct charging into electric arc and basic oxygen furnaces, enabling efficient remelting and consistent steel production.

Netherlands is the world’s largest exporter. Export volumes vary with domestic policies, environmental regulations, and international demand. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ tracks production levels, export flows and trade patterns to help businesses understand global supply chains and identify sourcing opportunities.

Supply generally meets demand, but disruptions may occur due to smelter shutdowns, environmental restrictions, or spikes in industrial consumption. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ monitors these supply demand imbalances to alert the market about potential shortages or surpluses.

Heavy melt scrap is graded by purity: industrial grade (1&2(80:20)), high purity 1&2(80:20), and ultra pure specialty forms. Higher purity grades cost more due to extra refining. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ provides separate price assessments for each grade to ensure market transparency.

When demand rises, for example: from pharmaceutical production or electronics manufacturing prices typically climb. Suppliers may prioritize certain customers, and lead times can extend. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ captures these market dynamics in real time.

Refining heavy melt scrap is energy intensive. Rising electricity, fuel, or chemical costs often get passed on to buyers. This is why prices in regions with cheaper electricity tend to be lower, a correlation that 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ analyses in its price assessments & market reports.

Regional variations arise from import dependency, shipping costs, currency fluctuations, and local demand. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ tracks prices across all major regions to highlight these differences.

Forecasts depend on production capacity, Chinese export policies, industrial demand, and macroeconomic factors. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ regularly publishes detailed forecasts that project price movements for the next 12 months based on comprehensive analysis of supply additions, demand growth in key industries, seasonal patterns, and macroeconomic indicators. Our forecasts help businesses anticipate market conditions and plan accordingly.

Yes. Accurate forecasts allow businesses to optimize purchasing, negotiate contracts, and manage inventories. If 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ forecasts predict a price increase in three months, you might choose to stock up now or lock in long term contracts at current rates, potentially saving thousands of dollars.

Events such as Chinese export restrictions, smelter shutdowns, environmental regulations, or economic shocks can cause supply shortages and price volatility. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ provides timely alerts when such events affect the market.

𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ collects data from manufacturers, distributors, and buyers worldwide to publish regular price assessments, market reports, and forecasts. Our transparent methodology and comprehensive coverage make us a trusted source for understanding fair pricing and market trends in the Heavy melt scrap industry.

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