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How long an order takes

A sample takes 3–5 days. Bulk production takes 20–25 days. The rest of the timeline depends mostly on decisions and on shipping.

Document
Buying guide
No.
G–11
Section
Samples & timing
Updated

The fixed parts

Stage Time
Sample 3–5 days
Bulk production 20–25 days

These are the times for making. Everything around them — answering questions, approving the sample, finding a specific fabric, shipping — adds to the total.

What usually adds time

  • Open questions before the sample. Each one has to be answered before we cut.
  • Fabric and trims. Stock fabrics are quick; custom colours, prints or special trims depend on suppliers.
  • Sample corrections. Each correction round adds a few days.
  • Changes after approval. These are the costliest delays, because materials may already be bought.
  • Shipping. Express, air and sea freight take very different times.

Working back from your date

Start from the day the goods must be in your hands and count back: shipping, then 20–25 days of bulk, then the approval of the pre-production sample, then 3–5 days for the sample, then the time to settle your questions. Tell us the date in your first message so we can plan with you.

Related: How long sampling takes, and why and Packing and shipping your order.

Questions

When do the 20–25 days start?

Once you have approved the pre-production sample and the fabric and trims for the order are in hand.

Does the lead time include shipping?

No. Shipping comes on top and depends on the method and on where the goods are going.

What is the most common cause of delay?

Decisions that are still open — fabric, colours, sizes or details — and changes after the sample has been approved.