What Should MSMEs Consider Before Buying Steel Online?

Steel is one of the most widely used materials in the world, with applications ranging from skyscrapers and railways to automobiles and kitchenware. It is essentially an alloy made by combining iron at very high temperatures (above 2600°F) with up to 1.5% carbon by weight, along with trace elements such as manganese, silicon, phosphorus, sulphur, and oxygen.

Its strength, durability, and affordability make it indispensable for modern infrastructure and manufacturing. Global steel production reached 1,951 million tonnes in 2021, a clear sign that demand continues to grow.
But for MSMEs in India, steel buying is often a challenge. With thousands of grades, varying quality standards, and fluctuating prices, choosing the right steel for construction or manufacturing can feel overwhelming - especially when sourcing steel online.

Here’s a practical guide to help MSMEs make informed decisions.
 

Different steel grades, different purposes

Not all steel is the same. Its properties vary based on carbon content and alloying elements. Broadly, there are four types:
•    Carbon steel: Accounts for 90% of global production, used in machining, welding, shipbuilding, and construction.
•    Tool steel: Alloyed with vanadium and niobium, ideal for high-heat applications like cutting tools and dies.
•    Alloy steel: Enhanced with elements such as chromium, nickel, and molybdenum for added corrosion resistance.
•    Stainless steel: With 10–30% chromium, highly resistant to corrosion, used in construction, power, oil and gas, and household items.

Within construction, MSMEs should look for specific products suited to project needs. For example, 500D TMT bars produced with ladle refining furnace (LRF) technology ensure toughness and eliminate impurities such as sulphur and phosphorus—making them ideal for earthquake-prone zones.
For coastal projects, austenitic stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance. 
 

Uniform size and roundness matter

For load-bearing structures, TMT bars are the default choice. Their uniform size and roundness, achieved through automated rolling technology, ensure consistent weight distribution. This prevents bending, twisting, or warping, extending the life of the structure.
Popular grades include Fe550D, Fe600, CRS500D, and CRS600—all known for strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance.

For a deeper comparison, see our blog on the difference between TMT bars and round MS bars.

Ribbing pattern for stronger bonding

The ribbing pattern along TMT rods ensures better anchorage with concrete. This tight bond prevents gaps, reduces cracks, and enhances structural integrity. For MSMEs, this translates into lower repair costs and longer-lasting projects.

 

Rigidity and extensibility in one

Premium TMT bars, such as Fe500D, combine a soft ferrite-pearlite core with a hard martensite exterior. This balance of flexibility and rigidity allows them to absorb seismic shocks, making them highly suitable for earthquake-resistant construction.

Look for quality certifications
Steel quality should never be compromised. Reputed products carry BIS and ISO certifications, ensuring compliance with safety and performance standards. For reinforced bars (rebars), look for international benchmarks such as:
•    IS 1786
•    IS 432 (MS)
•    ASTM A706
•    ASTM A615
•    BS 449
•    JIS G3112
These certifications give MSMEs confidence that their steel meets global quality standards.

You can also read our guide on understanding IS 2062:2011 E350A – Hot Rolled Structural Steel for reference.
 

Trust the right manufacturer

Whether you buy steel online or offline, sourcing from a trusted steel manufacturer makes all the difference. Leading producers use advanced processes such as water-cooling chambers for TMT rods and rigorous testing in quality assurance labs.
Working with a reliable partner ensures better pricing, timely delivery, and fewer worries about product quality.
 

Why MSMEs should buy steel online

The rise of digital steel marketplaces has made procurement easier. Platforms like JSW One MSME connect buyers directly with manufacturers, offering transparent pricing, flexible order sizes (as low as 2 tonnes), and expert guidance at every step.
This is particularly valuable for MSMEs, who often struggle with smaller order quantities, price fluctuations, and supply chain inefficiencies.
For cement buyers, we also recommend exploring our guides on:
•    How to check cement quality
•    OPC vs PPC cement: differences and applications

Key takeaway for MSMEs: Choosing the right steel requires understanding grades, verifying certifications, and trusting the right supplier. Buying steel online from a reliable platform simplifies the process and ensures you get the best steel at the right price.