Understanding manufacturing lead time is the first step to planning realistic launches. We break down product lead time into sampling, production, and shipping.
Sample time + Production time + Shipping = Total Lead Time
Lead time is the total time from confirming an order to receiving finished goods ready to sell.
The total time from confirming your order to receiving finished products in your warehouse, including sampling, production, and shipment.
Full journey from plan to ready stock, including suppliers and logistics.
Only manufacturing — from materials ready to finished goods leaving the line.
Shipping, customs, and delivery from factory to your warehouse.
Think of your production timeline as three big blocks. Each one can slip if not managed.
4-6 weeks
4-8 weeks
4-8 weeks
*This is depending on the product, and is a rough estimation
Sampling is the front part of lead time that most teams underestimate.
Typical time: Simple products ~2-4 weeks, complex ~4-8+ weeks
Once samples are approved, you enter lead production time.
Factory orders fabric, components, ingredients, packaging
Order slotted into production schedule with machines and staff
Cutting, sewing, blending, filling, assembling, printing
In-line checks, final inspections, and rework if needed
Even after products leave the factory, your lead time isn't finished.
Factory
1-3 days
Port
2-5 days
In Transit
3-6 weeks
Destination
3-7 days
Warehouse
1-3 days
~1-3 weeks depending on origin and customs
~4-8 weeks depending on Asia/US/EU routes
Avoid these common pitfalls when planning your production timeline.
Focusing on factory days but ignoring sampling and shipping.
Fix: Include all 3 stages in your timeline.
Using minimum stated times instead of realistic ranges and buffer.
Fix: Add 2-4 weeks buffer.
Major changes after sampling starts reset the clock.
Fix: Confirm specs before sampling.
Booking launch campaigns before confirming lead time.
Fix: Align marketing with confirmed dates.
New packaging, trims, or certifications can add weeks.
Fix: Check component timelines early.
Sourcy makes lead time visible and manageable instead of a surprise at the end.
Define product, markets, and launch window.
Set sample rounds, decision-makers, and deadlines.
Confirm lead production time and factory slot.
Choose route, mode, and buffer.
Align inventory arrival with campaigns.
Align your production timeline with marketing, cash flow, and logistics. We help map sampling, manufacturing lead time, and shipping into a clear, realistic plan.
*It's Free. No credit card required.