The invention relates to a method for hot forming semi-finished products of steel, in which the semi-finished product is heated to the forming temperature, is conveyed to the forming tool, and in the forming tool is hot formed, hardened or press hardened. The object of proposing a method for hot-forming semi-finished products of steel, in which also extremely thin-walled blanks may be conveyed at the forming temperature without issues and be fed to the forming tool properly and without limiting the degree of forming of the semi-finished product, is achieved in that prior to hot forming, hardening or press hardening, at least one structure which increases rigidity at least is incorporated in the semi-finished product, and the structure which increases rigidity of the semi-finished product is at least partially or completely disposed in the trimming region of the semi-finished product.