TMT bar price per kg: what decides the rate

The factors behind the rate

• Diameter: thinner bars such as 8 mm and 10 mm are often quoted at a higher rate per kg than thick bars like 16 mm or 20 mm, because they take more rolling and handling for the same weight. The gap varies by brand and by dealer, so ask for a size-wise rate instead of one flat rate.
• Grade: Fe500D usually costs a little more than Fe500, and Fe550D may cost more again. Compare the same grade across quotes. See our grade guide for what each one means.
• Brand: primary producers from integrated plants usually quote higher than re-rollers. The cheaper bar is not automatically bad, but check the mill test certificate and the BIS mark either way.
• Freight: distance from the mill or depot to your site, and the size of the truck. A small load on a small vehicle costs more per kg to move than a full truck.
• GST: TMT bars attract 18 percent GST at the time of writing. Confirm on the bill, because a quote with and without GST are not comparable.
• Quantity: bulk orders can get a better rate than a few bundles.

Ex-mill, delivered and retail: three different prices

Mill or ex-works rate is the price at the factory gate, before transport and often before GST. It is the lowest number you will hear, and it is not what you will pay at site.

Delivered rate includes freight to your location. Retail rate is what a dealer charges for ready stock from the shop, and includes the dealer's margin, loading and the convenience of buying exactly the sizes you need.

Per kg, per tonne and per bar

Dealers quote per kg, per tonne (1000 kg) or occasionally per bar or bundle. Convert everything to the same unit before comparing. A rate of Rs 60 per kg is Rs 60,000 per tonne. Use plain numbers, not impressions.

Per bar rates hide weight differences. A 12 m bar of 12 mm should weigh about 10.67 kg if it is on weight tolerance. If a bar is underweight, a cheap per bar price is not cheap per kg. Check weight with our delivery guide.

How to compare quotes fairly

• Ask every dealer for the same sizes, grade and brand, and the same quantity.
• Ask whether the rate is per kg or per tonne, with or without GST, and delivered or ex-shop.
• Ask whether unloading and any weighing charge are included.
• Ask how the weight is billed: actual weighed weight or theoretical weight from a chart.
• Write the total landed cost per kg for each quote, then compare.
• Ask for the brand's mill test certificate. A slightly higher rate for genuine, correctly weighted steel is usually better value.

Before you call the store

Have your bar list ready: size, number of bars or total kg, grade and brand preference, and delivery address. Our steel calculator gives a planning quantity, and the weight chart converts bars to kg. We will tell you today's rate and what is in stock.