Lead time is the period between confirming an order and receiving the finished goods. In clothing, it covers several stages, and a delay in any one of them can move the final date.

What lead time usually includes

• Order confirmation and any deposit.
• Fabric and trim sourcing.
• Sample approval.
• Cutting, sewing and finishing.
• Washing, pressing, labelling and packing.
• Final inspection and dispatch.

Ask what the quoted number covers

Some suppliers quote production time only, while others include sourcing and packing. Ask whether the lead time starts from order confirmation, payment or sample approval, as this can change the real delivery date.

Shipping is separate

Transport time, customs clearance and local delivery usually sit outside the production lead time. Add these to your calendar when planning stock for a season.

Plan a buffer

Allow extra days for sample revisions, fabric delays or inspection findings. A buffer is cheaper than missing a selling window.

Reorders are often faster

When fabric and patterns are already approved, repeat orders may need less time. Confirm this with the supplier instead of assuming it.

Keep communication simple

Ask for a short milestone schedule, such as fabric arrival, cutting start and packing date, so you can spot problems early.

Planning a wholesale or private-label order? Read about our wholesale supply, browse the full catalogue or contact us for a quote.