Description
What Is Tubular Steel? Types, Sizes & Wholesale Supply Guide
Tubular steel refers to hollow structural sections (HSS) manufactured from carbon steel, available in round, square, and rectangular profiles. As one of the most versatile steel products in global construction and manufacturing, tubular steel combines high strength-to-weight ratio with excellent weldability and formability. Sino East Steel supplies the full range of tubular steel products — from 1/2″ round pipes to 300×300mm square hollow sections and 50×100mm to 200×400mm rectangular tubing — at factory-direct FOB Tianjin prices.
Tubular Steel Types & Shapes
| Shape | Common Name | Standard Sizes | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round Tubular Steel | Steel Pipe / Tube | 1/2″ – 24″ OD | Fluid transport, piling, scaffolding, handrails |
| Square Tubular Steel (SHS) | Square Hollow Section | 20×20mm – 300×300mm | Columns, posts, frames, architectural structures |
| Rectangular Tubular Steel (RHS) | Rectangular Hollow Section | 50×25mm – 400×200mm | Beams, trailer frames, purlins, racking |
Surface Finish Options for Tubular Steel
- Black (untreated) tubular steel — lowest cost, for indoor or painted applications. Available in ASTM A500 Gr.A/B, priced from $450/MT FOB.
- Hot-dip galvanized tubular steel — 60-80μm zinc coating, 20-50 year outdoor lifespan. Standard for fencing, solar mounts, and coastal construction. Priced $550-750/MT FOB depending on thickness.
- Pre-galvanized tubular steel — thinner zinc layer (20-30μm), smooth finish, ideal for indoor framing and furniture. Priced $500-650/MT FOB.
- Stainless steel tubular — Grades 201/304/316 for food, chemical, and marine environments. Higher cost, premium corrosion resistance.
Why Buyers Choose Sino East Steel for Tubular Steel Supply
- Full size range — one supplier for round pipe, square SHS, and rectangular RHS tubular steel in all standard and custom sizes
- Factory-direct pricing — no trader markup; Tianjin-based production minimizes logistics cost for Xingang Port export
- MTC 3.1 certification — every shipment includes mill test certificates per EN 10204
- Flexible MOQ — trial orders from 3 MT; mixed specifications accepted in one container
- 50+ country export experience — regular shipments to Southeast Asia, Africa, Middle East, South America
Below, we focus on one of our most in-demand products: 2×4 galvanized rectangular tubular steel (50×100mm RHS). This specification combines the structural advantages of rectangular hollow sections with hot-dip zinc protection — scroll down for detailed specifications, wall thickness options, FOB pricing, and country-specific import guidance.
Galvanized 2×4 rectangular tubular steel (50×100mm RHS) — hot-dip galvanized, ASTM A500 standard, available in 1.5mm–6.0mm wall thickness.
2×4 Galvanized Rectangular Tubular Steel — Specifications & Wholesale Price Reference
Answer: The tubular steel 2×4 price for galvanized rectangular hollow sections (50×100mm RHS) from Sino East Steel ranges from $550 to $750 per metric ton FOB Tianjin, depending on wall thickness, order quantity, and zinc coating requirements. A standard 20GP container loads approximately 22–25 metric tons, making the total FOB shipment value roughly $12,000–$18,750 per container. Contact our sales team for the latest ex-factory and FOB price quotation for delivery to Manila, Cebu, or Davao.
Standard Specification Comparison Table — 2×4 Tubular Steel (50×100mm)
| Wall Thickness | Outer Dim. | Weight/M | Wt/Pc (6m) | Est.FOB/MT | Pcs/20GP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5mm | 50×100mm | 3.46kg/m | 20.76kg | $720–750 | ~1,200 |
| 2.0mm | 50×100mm | 4.58kg/m | 27.48kg | $680–720 | ~910 |
| 2.5mm | 50×100mm | 5.69kg/m | 34.14kg | $650–690 | ~730 |
| 3.0mm | 50×100mm | 6.78kg/m | 40.68kg | $620–660 | ~615 |
| 4.0mm | 50×100mm | 8.92kg/m | 53.52kg | $590–630 | ~467 |
| 5.0mm | 50×100mm | 10.99kg/m | 65.94kg | $570–600 | ~379 |
| 6.0mm | 50×100mm | 13.00kg/m | 78.00kg | $550–580 | ~320 |
Prices indicative FOB Tianjin. Subject to zinc coating thickness, steel billet market, and order volume. MTC 3.1 included.
Factors Affecting 2×4 Tubular Steel Wholesale Price
Answer: The wholesale price of 2×4 galvanized rectangular tubing is influenced by five factors: steel billet raw material cost, zinc coating thickness, order volume, wall thickness tolerance, and destination port shipping logistics.
1. Raw Material Cost — Steel Billet & HRC
When Chinese domestic billet prices rise by $50/MT, tubular steel FOB prices typically increase by $40–55/MT within two weeks. Sino East Steel’s proximity to Tangshan and Tianjin mills reduces raw material costs, maintaining competitive 2×4 tubular steel price levels.
2. Zinc Coating Specification
Standard hot-dip galvanizing applies 60–80μm zinc layer (275–350 g/m²). For coastal Philippine environments — high humidity and salt exposure — 85μm (≥600 g/m²) adds $30–50/MT. Always specify coating requirements when requesting quotation.
3. Order Quantity — Economies of Scale
1–5 MT trial: standard price. 5–15 MT: 3–5% off. 15–25 MT (1×20GP FCL): 5–8% off. 100+ MT monthly contract: negotiated rate with production slot reservation.
4. Wall Thickness Tolerance
Standard ASTM A500 tolerance is ±10%. Tighter tolerance (±5%) adds $20–35/MT due to additional QC and material waste.
5. Shipping & Logistics to Philippines
FOB Tianjin → Manila: $800–1,000/20GP, 15–18 days transit. CIF prices available on request.
Philippines Import Guide — 2×4 Tubular Steel Supply to Manila, Cebu, Davao
Answer: Sino East Steel supplies 2×4 galvanized rectangular tubing with regular shipments to Manila (North Harbour & MICT), Cebu (CIP), and Davao (Sasa Wharf). Philippine importers need BOC accreditation and an Import Clearance Certificate (ICC). MTC 3.1 certification included with every order.
Major Delivery Ports & Transit Times
| Port | Transit | Freight/20GP | Clearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manila | 15–18 days | $800–1,000 | 3–5 days |
| Cebu | 18–22 days | $1,000–1,200 | 4–6 days |
| Davao | 20–25 days | $1,100–1,300 | 4–7 days |
Basic Import Requirements
- BOC Accreditation: Philippine Bureau of Customs Importer Clearance Certificate required.
- Standards: PNS recognizes ASTM A500 for structural hollow sections. MTC 3.1 per EN 10204 provided.
- Duties: HS 7306.61.90 at 3–7% (ASEAN-China FTA preferential rates available). VAT 12% on landed cost.
- Payment: T/T 30/70 or L/C at sight for orders over $20,000.
Bulk Order Discounts for Philippine Buyers
| Volume | Discount | Payment | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–5 MT | Base price | T/T 50/50 | 15–20 days |
| 5–15 MT | 3–5% off | T/T 30/70 | 20–25 days |
| 15–25 MT (1×20GP) | 5–8% off | T/T 30/70 or L/C | 20–25 days |
| 50–100 MT | 8–12% off | L/C at sight | 25–30 days |
| 100+ MT | Negotiated | L/C or T/T 20/80 | Scheduled |
Related Products & Technical Guides
Standard weight black iron pipe
Round galvanized steel pipe
Sizes, prices & dimensions chart
Pressure rating & weight chart
Frequently Asked Questions — Tubular Steel 2×4 Price & Import
Q1: What is the current tubular steel 2×4 price FOB China for Philippine importers?
A: Sino East Steel’s FOB Tianjin price for galvanized 2×4 rectangular tubular steel (50×100mm RHS) ranges from $550 to $750 per metric ton as of July 2026. The exact price depends on wall thickness (1.5mm–6.0mm), zinc coating grade, and order volume. For CIF Manila/Cebu/Davao pricing, add approximately $35–50/MT for ocean freight and insurance. Contact [email protected] or WhatsApp +86 186 220 88833 for a firm quotation.
Q2: How much does a 6-meter piece of 2×4 galvanized rectangular tubing weigh and cost?
A: At 2.0mm wall: ~27.5 kg/piece, $15–16 FOB. At 3.0mm: ~40.7 kg, $22–23 FOB. At 4.0mm: ~53.5 kg, $28–30 FOB. At 6.0mm: ~78 kg, $36–39 FOB. A 20GP container of 2.0mm tubing holds approximately 910 pieces (25 MT). Contact us for the complete weight chart for all available thicknesses.
Q3: Can I order custom lengths and wall thickness for 2×4 galvanized tubular steel?
A: Yes. Sino East Steel accepts custom orders for: custom lengths (5.8m, 6.0m, 6.5m, 12m), custom wall thickness (0.8mm–12mm), special zinc coating up to 85μm for coastal environments, end finishing (plain, beveled, threaded, grooved), and additional anti-rust treatment. Minimum custom order: 3–5 MT. Lead time: 15–25 days.
Q4: What certifications and documents do you provide for Philippine customs clearance?
A: Every shipment includes: Mill Test Certificate (MTC 3.1 per EN 10204), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin (Form E for ASEAN-China FTA), and ISO 9001:2008 factory certification. Third-party inspection (SGS/BV/Intertek) available at additional cost. All documents support Philippine BOC clearance under HS 7306.61.90.
Q5: What is the total delivery time from order to Philippine port arrival?
A: Total lead time: 35–45 days including: production (15–25 days), inland transport to Tianjin Xingang Port (2–3 days), export customs (1–2 days), ocean transit (15–18 days Manila / 18–22 days Cebu / 20–25 days Davao). Rush orders for in-stock specs: 10–15 days, priority fee $20–30/MT.
2×4 Tubular Steel Applications — Galvanized Rectangular Tubing in Construction, Transport & Infrastructure
Galvanized 2×4 rectangular tubing (50×100mm RHS) ranks among the most versatile structural hollow sections in global construction and manufacturing. The 2:1 aspect ratio of 50×100mm delivers directional strength combined with significant material savings compared to heavier I-beams or solid sections. Sino East Steel exports 2×4 tubular steel to over 50 countries across Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and South America for applications including:
Building & Construction
- Structural columns and beams — ASTM A500 Grade B 2×4 steel tubing replaces traditional I-beams in light steel-frame buildings, reducing structural weight by 25-35% while maintaining load-bearing capacity
- Roof trusses and purlins — high strength-to-weight ratio (250-315 MPa yield) for long-span industrial and warehouse roofs; 2×4 rectangular tubing for purlin systems up to 8m spans without intermediate support
- Scaffolding frames — galvanized coating (60-80μm zinc) protects against job site exposure; meets BS 1139 scaffolding tube standards
- Steel fencing and gate frames — 2×4 galvanized tubing for gate posts and horizontal rails; hot-dip galvanizing ensures 20+ years of rust-free service in outdoor installations
- Carport and canopy structures — lightweight yet rigid 2×4 steel tubing for carport frames in residential and commercial parking
Transportation & Vehicle Manufacturing
- Trailer frames and chassis — 2×4 rectangular tubing for trailer manufacturing provides excellent torsional rigidity; commonly used for utility trailers, boat trailers, and flatbed trailers
- Truck body frames and subframes — replaces hardwood beams in truck body construction, reducing overall vehicle weight by 30% while increasing payload capacity
- Bus and coach body framing — 50×100mm RHS steel tube for structural skeleton of passenger vehicles
- Agricultural trailers and equipment — galvanized finish withstands fertilizer and chemical exposure in farm environments
Industrial & Infrastructure
- Solar panel mounting structures — 2×4 galvanized rectangular tubing for ground-mount solar arrays; hot-dip zinc coating resists decades of UV and rain exposure
- Warehouse racking and shelving — 2×4 steel tubing handles heavy pallet loads in logistics centers; 2.5mm-3.0mm wall thickness recommended for standard racking
- Greenhouse frames — 2×4 rectangular hollow section for commercial greenhouse structures; galvanized coating essential for high-humidity planting environments
- Cable tray and pipe support systems — 2×4 tubular steel for industrial cable management and pipe rack supports in petrochemical plants
- Machine guards and safety barriers — 2×4 RHS for factory safety fencing, robot cell guarding, and warehouse pedestrian barriers
Q6: What is the difference between 2×4 RHS and 2×4 SHS steel tubing?
A: RHS (Rectangular Hollow Section) 2×4 has a 50×100mm cross-section with a 1:2 width-to-height ratio, providing directional strength ideal for beams, frames, and horizontal members. SHS (Square Hollow Section) has equal sides and is better suited for columns and vertical posts. Sino East Steel supplies both RHS and SHS 2×4 rectangular and square tubing at factory-direct prices. Choose RHS when you need bending resistance in one direction; choose SHS for uniform compression loading.
Q7: Can I order 2×4 galvanized tubing cut to custom lengths?
A: Yes. Standard export length is 6 meters, but Sino East Steel offers precision cut-to-length service for 5.8m, 3m, 2m, or custom specifications with ±2mm tolerance. Cut-to-length surcharge is $10–20/MT depending on quantity and number of cuts. Specify your required lengths when requesting a quotation. Note: custom cutting may add 2-3 days to production lead time.
Q8: What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for 2×4 rectangular tubing?
A: MOQ is 3 MT for mixed specifications (different wall thicknesses combined in one container) or 5 MT for a single specification. For trial orders below MOQ, we can consolidate your order with other customer shipments to reduce the minimum quantity — contact our sales team for small quantity arrangements. Full container load (FCL 20GP, 22-25 MT) orders receive the best per-ton pricing.
Q9: Is 2×4 galvanized steel tubing suitable for structural applications?
A: Yes. Our ASTM A500 Gr.A/B 2×4 tubular steel meets structural grade requirements with minimum yield strength of 250 MPa (Grade A) or 315 MPa (Grade B), and minimum tensile strength of 400 MPa (Grade B). MTC 3.1 certification per EN 10204 is included with every shipment. This 2×4 tubing is suitable for structural framing, load-bearing columns, roof trusses, mezzanine floors, and industrial platforms under proper engineering design.
Q10: What is the price difference between galvanized and black 2×4 steel tubing?
A: Hot-dip galvanized 2×4 rectangular tubing typically costs $80–120/MT more than black (uncoated) steel tubing due to the zinc coating process. However, galvanized tubing eliminates the ongoing cost of painting and maintenance — the zinc layer provides 20-50 years of corrosion protection depending on environment. For outdoor applications such as fencing, solar mounts, and construction, galvanized is the more cost-effective choice over the product lifetime. For indoor, painted applications, black steel tubing at $450-600/MT FOB may be adequate. Contact us for a side-by-side quotation for your specific use case.
Q11: How is 2×4 galvanized rectangular tubing packed and shipped?
A: Standard export packing for 2×4 tubular steel: hexagonal bundles secured with steel strapping (4-6 straps per bundle), each bundle weighing 2-3 MT. Bundles are wrapped with waterproof tarpaulin or plastic film for ocean transport protection. Loading: 20GP container accommodates 22-25 MT. All loading done by forklift at Tianjin Xingang Port, approximately 2 hours per container. Custom packing options available: wooden crate packaging ($15-25/MT surcharge), plastic end caps for threaded/grooved ends, or individual piece wrapping for premium surface finish protection.
Q12: Do you export 2×4 galvanized tubing to African and Middle Eastern markets?
A: Yes. Sino East Steel regularly exports 2×4 rectangular tubing to Nigeria (Lagos/Apapa Port), Kenya (Mombasa), Ghana (Tema), South Africa (Durban), Tanzania (Dar es Salaam), UAE (Jebel Ali), Saudi Arabia (Dammam), and Qatar (Hamad Port). Ocean transit times: West Africa 30-35 days, East Africa 25-30 days, Middle East 18-22 days. We provide HS code classification (7306.61.90), Certificate of Origin, and all documents required for customs clearance. Contact [email protected] for country-specific pricing including CIF delivery.







