Steel remains one of the most versatile and widely used construction and industrial materials. From shipbuilding to automotive, and from construction to heavy machinery, steel plates and sheets are indispensable. Buyers often calculate costs in different ways—either per square meter (sqm) for steel plates or per kilogram (kg) for steel sheets, depending on the type and application.

This article breaks down the steel plate price per square meter and the steel sheet price for 5mm thickness per kilogram, along with the factors that influence these prices.

Difference Between Steel Plate and Steel Sheet

Before discussing prices, it’s important to understand the difference:

• Steel Sheet: Thin, flat pieces of steel with thickness typically less than 6 mm. Used in automotive panels, appliances, roofing, and lightweight construction.

• Steel Plate: Thicker flat steel, generally above 6 mm. Used in bridges, heavy equipment, oil & gas platforms, shipbuilding, and structural applications.

While both are sold in various grades such as mild steel, carbon steel, and stainless steel, pricing is calculated differently. Sheets are often quoted per kilogram, while plates are more commonly quoted per square meter.

Steel Plate Price per Square Meter

The price of a steel plate per square meter depends on its thickness, grade, and finish. Here’s an approximate breakdown:

• Mild Steel Plate (6–12 mm thick): $40 – $70 per sqm

• Carbon Steel Plate (10–25 mm thick): $50 – $90 per sqm

• Stainless Steel Plate (8–20 mm thick): $120 – $250 per sqm

• Alloy Steel Heavy Plate (25–50 mm thick): $100 – $180 per sqm

Example Calculation:
If a 10 mm thick mild steel plate costs $60 per sqm, then:

• A 2m × 1m plate (2 sqm) would cost $120.

Steel Sheet Price 5mm per Kg

Steel is one of the most important industrial materials used worldwide. Its strength, durability, and adaptability make it essential in construction, manufacturing, transportation, and engineering. Among different forms of steel, steel sheets are widely used because of their versatility. One of the most common thicknesses purchased is the 5 mm sheet, which balances strength and ease of fabrication. Since steel is usually sold by weight, buyers often need to understand the steel sheet price 5mm per kilogram to calculate their project costs accurately.

How to Calculate the Price of 5mm Steel Sheet

Steel sheets are priced based on weight per kilogram. The weight of a sheet is calculated using the density of steel, which is about 7,850 kilograms per cubic meter.

Weight of 1 sqm of 5mm steel sheet:

• Thickness × Density × Area

• 0.005 m × 7,850 kg/m³ × 1 sqm

• = 39.25 kilograms per square meter

If the average price of steel sheet is $0.90 to $1.20 per kilogram, then:

• 5 mm sheet per sqm = 39.25 × $1.00 ≈ $39.25

This means a 5 mm thick steel sheet costs around $39 to $47 per square meter, depending on market fluctuations, supplier pricing, and regional factors.

Factors Influencing Steel Sheet and Plate Prices

Several factors determine the cost of steel sheets and plates:

1. Thickness

Thicker steel requires more raw material, making it more expensive per square meter.

2. Grade and Alloy Content

• Mild steel is the most affordable.

• Stainless steel with chromium and nickel costs more.

• Alloy steels designed for high strength or resistance are also priced higher.

3. Surface Treatment

Coated or processed sheets cost more than untreated ones. Examples include:

• Galvanized sheets (zinc-coated for corrosion resistance)

• Painted or powder-coated finishes

4. Global Steel Index

International steel prices are tied to raw material costs such as iron ore, coal, and scrap steel. Market demand from Asia, Europe, and North America also impacts pricing.

5. Order Quantity

Bulk orders usually reduce the per kilogram price, while small orders may carry higher rates.

6. Logistics and Shipping

Steel sheets are heavy, and transportation significantly increases the landed cost, especially for international buyers.

Market Price Ranges in 2025

Steel prices vary across grades and thicknesses. Based on global market estimates:

• Steel Plate (per sqm): $40 – $180 depending on thickness and grade

• Steel Sheet 5mm (per kg): $0.90 – $1.20 globally

• Steel Sheet 5mm (per sqm): $39 – $47, based on weight of 39.25 kg

Applications of Steel Plates and 5mm Steel Sheets

Steel Plates

Steel plates are thicker and used for heavy-duty applications such as:

• Shipbuilding

• Bridge construction

• Pressure vessels

• Offshore oil platforms

• Industrial machinery

5mm Steel Sheets

5mm sheets are more versatile and used in lightweight structural and manufacturing applications, including:

• Automotive panels and body parts

• Appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens

• Cladding and roofing in construction

• Protective covers and casings for equipment

• General fabrication and welding projects

Example: Calculating Costs for a Project

Suppose a project requires 100 sqm of 5mm steel sheet.

• Weight per sqm = 39.25 kg

• Total weight = 100 × 39.25 = 3,925 kg

• At $1.00 per kg, the total cost = $3,925

• Adding 10% for logistics, handling, and waste, the final cost could be around $4,300 – $4,500

This simple calculation shows why knowing the per kilogram price is so important for contractors and procurement managers.

Why Understanding Steel Pricing Matters

For contractors, engineers, and buyers, understanding pricing units is crucial:

• Steel Plate Price per Square Meter is used for thick, heavy-duty structural steel. Prices range from $40 to $180 per sqm.

• Steel Sheet Price 5mm per Kilogram is used for medium-thickness sheets. At $0.90 to $1.20 per kg, one sqm costs about $39 to $47.

By knowing both cost methods—per square meter and per kilogram—buyers can make informed decisions, negotiate better with suppliers, and avoid unexpected expenses in large projects.

Conclusion

The steel sheet price 5mm per kg is a key benchmark for construction and manufacturing industries. With one square meter weighing around 39.25 kilograms, buyers can expect to pay between $39 and $47 per square meter, depending on the market. Factors like thickness, grade, treatment, and global supply trends influence the final price. For contractors and procurement teams, this knowledge ensures accurate budgeting, cost control, and better project management