Steel Tubing & HSS Buying Guide

Steel Tubing & HSS Buying Guide

Bottom line: Tubing and HSS are specified by outside dimensions, wall thickness, material specification, length and fabrication needs. Pipe-style nominal sizing should not be substituted.

What to put on the RFQ

Product typeHSS structural tubing, mechanical tubing, DOM/ERW or another required product.
Outside dimensionsSquare, rectangular or round OD dimensions.
Wall thicknessNominal wall/gauge plus any design-wall requirement from drawings.
SpecificationExamples may include ASTM A500 or A513 depending on product/application.
Length & quantityStock or cut length, piece count and tolerance.
ProcessingCutting, drilling, punching, welding preparation or coating.

How to avoid buying the wrong material

Start with the project drawing, approved material specification or actual service conditions rather than a generic product name. Dimensions, grade/specification, finish, length, quantity, processing, certifications and delivery requirements can all change what should be quoted.

For replacement or maintenance material, photos and measurements help, but markings, mill certifications, original drawings or manufacturer information are stronger evidence when available.

Send a cleaner RFQ

Attach the drawing, cut list or material takeoff whenever possible. Include delivery ZIP and required date so sourcing and freight can be evaluated.

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