Supply Chain Planning

Plan around decision gates

A useful lead time is more than a factory production estimate. The schedule should include product selection, artwork, samples, revisions, tooling when required, pre-production approval, manufacturing, inspection, packing and export handover.

Transit time varies by route and season, so the target arrival date and delivery terms should be stated at the start. Buyers should also identify who approves samples and artwork, because delayed decisions can be as important as production time.