What Is Lead Time?

The time from order confirmation to finished goods ready to ship.

Lead time is the total time from a confirmed purchase order to finished, packed goods ready for dispatch — typically excluding the earlier sampling and approval cycle, which is quoted separately. Standard styles on standard fabric usually run 18 to 30 days; custom fabric, embellishment, or a larger order size extends this. Lead time is distinct from shipping transit time, which is added on top depending on freight method and destination.