Automotive Industry

machinery working on a car assembly line

In 2019, the automotive industry used over 182 billion lbs of steel in the production of vehicles (excluding tools, facilities, robotics, and infrastructure). That steel is critical to the efficiency, longevity, and most importantly, safety, of vehicles today.

 

These characteristics of steel make it a popular and ideal choice for many applications, especially in the automotive industry. Because of this, steel suppliers need to meet the strict criteria and enormous demand for the material.

Why Choose Service Steel Warehouse?

Our competitive edge is in our name: Service. Since our humble beginnings in 1965, we have taken pride in the accuracy, speed and quality of service we offer you.

Environmentally-Friendly

Steel is not only 100% recyclable, but also has relatively low consumption of energy in the manufacturing process and Service Steel is no exception.

Premium Quality

Our steel is high-quality and available in different specifications for automobiles, the machinery assembling them, or the facilities they’re being assembled in.

Massive Stock

Our huge inventory means you don’t have to visit several suppliers to find what you need for different applications.

Ready-to-Ship Inventory

Our supply of steel products is also ready to ship the following day and allows you to get processes started even faster.

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Call Us Now: 800-675-9929

Steel Applications in the Automotive Industry

Steel Car Lifts

car on a lift

Used far beyond the manufacturing process, car lifts are essential for assembling, checking, and repairing vehicles. This is why it’s incredibly important for them to maintain their strength and continue to operate safely and as expected. Whether for a home garage, professional mechanic’s garage, or the manufacturer’s facility, car lifts need the benefits that steel offers.

Industrial Robots

assembly line robot arms

During the manufacturing process, industrial and assembly line robots are used to do repetitive or dangerous tasks instead of a human. Steel’s strength and light weight allows it to carry large parts as well as moving quickly and precisely. This is critical not only for process efficiency but also reliability and safety.

Car Chassis

rendering of the chassis and wheels of a car

Most car chassis are largely made from steel now, and it’s for the same reasons that steel is popular in other industries. Strong, lightweight, and resistant to rust and corrosion means that it creates a safe foundation for the vehicle while getting good fuel efficiency and lasting longer than other materials.

Steel Exhaust Pipes

exhaust pipe and underside of a car

Although steel makes up a large portion of a vehicle’s safety structure, it can be used for smaller components like the exhaust pipe as well. This is helpful because steel is also durable against heating and cooling and therefore will last longer against the repeated temperature cycles as you use and shut off your car.

ADDITIONAL STEEL PRODUCTS

Merchants

Rounds, squares, flats, rebar, and more

Sheets

Steel sheet metal

Structural Shapes

Channels and beams

Coils, Plates, & Grating

Coils, mill plates, floor plates, bar grating, and more

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Automotive Steel FAQs


Which high-strength steel grades does Service Steel Warehouse supply that meet automotive structural requirements?

We stock a wide range of structural carbon steel shapes, including ASTM A36, A572-50, and A786. Contact our team to confirm the availability of automotive grades tailored to vehicle structure needs.

What certifications does Service Steel Warehouse have that align with automotive industry standards?

We are an AISC-Certified Plant and our quality assurance system satisfies the covenants of ISO 9001-2008. As a result, we’re able to supply premium carbon steel products and exceptional service reliability, which are essential compliance foundations for automotive supply chains. For specific information, reach out to our sales team for documentation.

Does Service Steel Warehouse provide mill test reports or production part approval packages for automotive quality control?

Yes. Our service priority and focus on tailored industrial needs allow us to provide MTRs or documentation on request. Get in touch with our team to confirm documentation today.

How does Service Steel Warehouse ensure a consistent steel supply during fluctuating automotive demand?

We maintain a massive, ready-to-ship inventory of structural shapes, tubing, sheets, plates, coils, and more. Combined with our logistic network (including Texas, Louisiana, Indiana, and national reach), we’re uniquely positioned to buffer demand surges and maintain supply continuity.

Can Service Steel Warehouse phase steel deliveries to align with vehicle production cycles?

Yes. We provide cut-to-length services, custom fabrication, and just-in-time delivery to support phased delivery coordination. Our logistics and service model enables us to align deliveries with your automotive production schedules to reduce client inventory holding.

Can Service Steel Warehouse provide eco-friendly or recycled steel options to help OEMs meet sustainability targets?

Yes. Our steel is 100% recyclable, energy-efficient in manufacturing, and environmentally friendly. The very nature of structural carbon steel supports OEM sustainability goals, especially when paired with our efficient transport capabilities.

What value-added processes from Service Steel Warehouse can streamline my subassembly workflow?

We offer a robust suite of value-added services, including flame cutting, bending, sawing, galvanizing, and more. These capabilities enable partners like you to receive steel parts that are ready for immediate downstream subassembly. This reduces in-house labor, turnaround time, and handling complexity.

How does Service Steel Warehouse’s Houston location enhance logistics for automotive plants?

Our Houston headquarters is located near the Houston Ship Channel with rail access. This strategic hub, plus additional locations across the country, enables fast and reliable next‑day shipping, as well as robust logistics to automotive plants across the country and beyond.