The Hidden Cost of Waiting: How Steel Prices and Lead Times Shift After Harvest

As harvest season winds down, many farmers turn their attention from the fields to planning for the year ahead. It’s a time to take stock to assess what worked, what didn’t, and what’s needed before planting season rolls around again. One area that often gets overlooked until it’s too late? Liquid storage tanks and culvert.

At DK Tanks & Pipe, we’ve seen it time and again: waiting until spring to order a new fuel tank, liquid storage tank, or culvert/steel pipe can end up costing more than expected not just in price, but in time.

Steel Prices Fluctuate Timing Matters

Steel prices don’t follow the farming calendar. They follow market trends influenced by global demand, tariffs, energy costs, and transportation rates. After harvest, when many producers pause major purchases, mills often adjust output and by the time spring arrives, demand spikes again. That’s when prices tend to rise, just as everyone else is ordering new equipment and storage.

By ordering in the fall or early winter, you’re often locking in lower steel prices before that seasonal uptick hits. For large projects, even a small difference per ton can translate into thousands of dollars saved.

Lead Times Stretch When Demand Rises

The other factor that’s easy to underestimate is lead time.Manufacturers, freight carriers, and installers all get busier as spring approaches. Whether you’re ordering a stainless steel tank, carbon steel tank, or heavy wall steel pipe, the earlier you plan, the more likely you are to have what you need when you need it.

By planning ahead now, you avoid the waiting game and you can hit the ground running when spring projects start.

Fuel, Fertilizer, and Water Storage Planning

After harvest is also the ideal time to evaluate liquid storage capacity. Did you run low on diesel during harvest? Are you planning to expand your operation next season? A properly sized storage tank can help you buy fuel when prices are favorable instead of being forced to pay peak-season rates.

DK Tanks & Pipe offers a range of solutions, including:

• Stainless Steel Tanks – Long-lasting and corrosion-resistant for liquid fertilizer or fuel.

• Carbon Steel Tanks – Rugged, economical options for on-farm fuel or water storage.

• Fiberglass Tanks – Lightweight, chemical-resistant, and built for a variety of ag applications.

  
  

A Smart Move for Long-Term Savings

Delaying an investment can feel like saving money but often, it’s the opposite. By purchasing tanks or pipe during the slower post-harvest months, you can:

• Lock in more stable pricing before spring demand spikes.

• Secure faster delivery and shorter lead times.

• Reduce the risk of project delays next planting season.

Farmer-Owned. Farmer-Focused.

DK Tanks & Pipe is farmer-owned and operated, so we understand the rhythm of the ag industry. We don’t just sell tanks and pipe we help farmers make smart, cost-effective decisions that stand the test of time.

If you’re considering a new tank or planning an upgrade for 2026, now is the perfect time to reach out. Let’s talk through your needs, compare options, and help you plan ahead before steel prices rise again.