Steel Box Section & Hollow Section

Box Section & Hollow Section - Rackerman

Our mild steel box section, rectangular and circular hollow sections are supplied in S235 grade across square box section (SHS), rectangular hollow section (RHS) and circular hollow section (CHS). Available in 3m and 7.5m lengths and a wide range of sizes and wall thicknesses, suitable for fabrication, frames, gates, supports and structural work. Lead times are 3-5 working days, kerbside delivery to mainland UK.

Steel box section (SHS & RHS) in mild steel, galvanised, stainless steel and aluminium. Choose your material below — full lengths or cut to size to the millimetre, no minimum order, delivered across the UK.

Compare box section by material

Mild steel square box section tubes with dark grey mill finish, cut ends showing the hollow centre
Mild Steel
Grade S235
Best for
Indoor frames, gates & general fabrication
Corrosion
Low — needs painting
Weldable
Yes, easily
Relative cost
££££
Galvanised steel box section tubes with silver spangled hot-dip zinc coating
Galvanised
Hot-dip zinc coated
Best for
Outdoor gates, fencing & agricultural
Corrosion
High — zinc protected
Weldable
Yes — grind coating back first
Relative cost
££££
Stainless steel box section tubes with brushed satin 304 finish
Stainless Steel
Grade 304
Best for
Handrails, marine & hygienic areas
Corrosion
Very high
Weldable
Yes
Relative cost
££££
Aluminium box section tubes with matte silver mill finish
Aluminium
Grade 6063-T6
Best for
Lightweight & architectural work
Corrosion
High — won’t rust
Weldable
Specialist (TIG)
Relative cost
££££
Cut to size  ·  No minimum order  ·  UK deliveryrackerman.co.uk

SHS vs RHS — square vs rectangular hollow section

Square hollow section (SHS) has equal sides, such as 40×40mm, and is the go-to for posts, gate frames and symmetrical structures. Rectangular hollow section (RHS) has unequal sides, such as 50×30mm, and is stronger about its longer axis — better for beams, lintels and spans where the load runs one way. Both profiles are available here in every material.

Sizes & wall thickness

Square profiles run from 20×20mm up to 100×100mm and above, rectangular from 40×20mm up to 100×50mm and above, in wall thicknesses from 1.5mm to 5mm. Exact stock sizes, weights and load data are listed on each product page. Every size can be ordered in full lengths or cut to your exact measurements with no minimum order.

Common applications

  • Gates & railings — mild steel or galvanised
  • Pergolas & gazebos — mild steel or aluminium
  • Trailers & ramps — mild steel
  • Furniture & handrails — mild steel or stainless
  • Structural frames — mild steel S235/S355
  • Agricultural & outdoor — galvanised

Delivery & lead time

Box section is typically delivered within 3–5 working days. Full-length orders may require offload assistance on site — please let us know at checkout.

Steel box section FAQs

What is steel box section?

A hollow square or rectangular steel tube — square hollow section (SHS) or rectangular hollow section (RHS) — used for frames, gates, railings and structural work.

Can you cut it to size?

Yes, cut to the millimetre with no minimum order.

What wall thickness do I need?

1.5–2mm for light frames and furniture; 3–5mm for gates, structural and load-bearing work.

Is galvanised better than mild steel?

Outdoors, yes — the zinc coating resists rust. Indoors, mild steel is cheaper and perfectly suitable.

Is aluminium box section strong enough?

For lightweight frames, edging and architectural use, yes — and it won’t rust. For heavy structural loads, use steel.

FAQ

What is the difference between box section, RHS and CHS?

Box section (SHS, square hollow section) has equal sides and is the most popular profile for frames and general fabrication. RHS (rectangular hollow section) has unequal sides, giving greater strength in one direction for beams and load-bearing frames. CHS (circular hollow section), also called steel tube, gives even strength in all directions and is used for columns, posts and handrails.

What grade is your mild steel box section?

All our box and hollow sections are supplied in S235 mild steel, a commonly specified general-purpose structural grade suitable for welding, cutting, drilling and fabrication. For exact section properties and tolerances, refer to the applicable mill certificate or BS EN standard for your application.

What lengths are available?

Square box section (SHS) is available in 3m and 7.5m lengths. Rectangular (RHS) and circular (CHS) sections are available in 7.5m lengths. Available sizes and wall thicknesses are shown on each individual product page.

Can box section be cut and welded?

Yes - mild steel box section can be cut, drilled, welded and fabricated using suitable metalworking tools and correct preparation. Cut ends and drilled holes should be protected if the section will be used outside or in damp conditions. Always use suitable protective equipment when cutting, drilling or welding steel.

How is box section delivered?

Lead times are currently 3-5 working days. Sections are long, heavy items supplied in full lengths, so suitable delivery access is required. Delivery is kerbside only and our vehicles do not carry HIAB or lifting equipment - steel must be safely offloaded by the customer on arrival.