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When Does Your Supplier’s Lead Time Actually Start?

Suppose one factory quotes 30 days after material arrival. Another quotes 40 days from deposit, including material purchasing.

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Cotton tote production progressing from cut fabric to packed finished goods

The first quotation shows fewer days. It may still produce a later delivery.

Confirm whether the quoted lead time begins when the deposit is received, the sample is approved, artwork is confirmed or materials are available. Several conditions may need to be met before production can start.

Production complete, inspection passed and goods ready for collection are different milestones. If the business needs stock available in a warehouse, allow for the work after production as well.

Ask the supplier to map the dates from order approval to goods ready for collection, including the decisions and inputs required from your team.

Identify which dates depend on approvals or material availability and what happens if those inputs arrive late. That gives you a schedule you can plan around and shows where a late approval could move the entire order.

Reference: Protolabs — Quick-Turn Manufacturing Guidelines

Cost & Supplier Performance Advisory

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