What Lengths Do RSJ Steel Beams Come In?
RSJ steel beams are commonly supplied in standard stock lengths, with shorter or exact lengths typically achieved by cutting from those stock sizes. In the UK, most suppliers stock RSJs, Universal Beams (UB), and Universal Columns (UC) in a limited number of nominal mill lengths, depending on section size and availability.
This guide explains the typical RSJ lengths used in UK construction, how they are supplied, and what buyers should consider before ordering.
Standard RSJ Steel Beam Lengths in the UK
Most RSJ steel beams are rolled at the mill in fixed stock lengths rather than made to order.
The most common nominal lengths encountered in the UK are:
6 m
7.5 m
9 m
12 m
Not every section size is available in every length. Larger and heavier sections are more commonly stocked in shorter standard lengths, while lighter sections may be available up to 12 m depending on mill production and stockholder range.
You can view the full range of available sections in the
RSJ steel beams collection.
Are RSJs Always Supplied in Full Lengths?
In practice, RSJs are very rarely used at full stock length on site.
Typical supply scenarios include:
A 4.2 m beam cut from a 6 m stock length
Multiple shorter beams cut from one stock length
Full-length beams supplied where access and handling allow
Cutting beams to size before delivery is common, particularly on residential projects where handling long sections on site can be impractical.
Typical Lengths by Section Type
Although RSJs, Universal Beams, and Universal Columns follow similar length conventions, availability varies by section type.
| Section type | Typical stock lengths |
|---|---|
| RSJ / Universal Beam (UB) | 6 m, 7.5 m, 9 m, up to 12 m |
| Universal Column (UC) | 6 m, 7.5 m, occasionally 9 m |
| Heavier sections | Commonly 6 m or 7.5 m |
Universal Beams are generally available in longer stock lengths than Universal Columns, particularly in lighter sections.
Ordering RSJs Longer Than Standard Lengths
RSJs longer than standard stock lengths are not typically held as regular stock.
Where longer spans are required, projects are usually designed around:
Multiple beams
Spliced sections
Alternative structural layouts
Any requirement for non-standard lengths is normally addressed at the structural design stage, rather than by sourcing bespoke rolled sections.
Practical Considerations When Choosing RSJ Lengths
Before ordering RSJ steel beams, buyers commonly consider:
Delivery vehicle access for long beams
Handling and lifting constraints on site
Whether beams are supplied cut to length
Material wastage from unused offcuts
Longer beams can increase delivery complexity, while cut-to-size beams are often easier to manage on domestic and light commercial sites.
RSJ Lengths and Finishes
Beam length availability is generally independent of surface finish.
Both finishes are commonly supplied cut from the same stock lengths:
Mill finish RSJ steel
Red oxide primed RSJ steel
The choice of finish typically relates to handling, storage, and later coating, rather than the length of the beam itself.
Relevant collections:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common RSJ length in the UK?
6 m is the most commonly stocked RSJ length, with 7.5 m and 9 m also widely available depending on section size.
Can RSJs be supplied cut to size?
Yes. RSJs are typically cut from standard stock lengths to suit project requirements.
Are longer RSJs harder to deliver?
Longer beams may require larger delivery vehicles and additional handling considerations, particularly on restricted-access sites.
Do Universal Columns come in the same lengths as beams?
Universal Columns are often stocked in shorter lengths than Universal Beams, especially in heavier sizes.
Ordering RSJ Steel Beams
RSJs are usually ordered by specifying:
Section size
Required cut length
Preferred finish
Stock lengths form the basis of supply, with beams cut to suit where required.
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Structural Disclaimer
RSJ steel beams must be specified by a qualified structural engineer.
Installation is subject to approved designs and building control approval.
This article is provided for general guidance only.