Lead Time Calculator — Total Order Lead Time from PO to Delivery
Calculating total order lead time is central to time and action (TNA) management in apparel merchandising — it ensures every phase from material sourcing to final delivery fits within buyer deadlines.
What is Order Lead Time?
Calculating total order lead time is central to time and action (TNA) management in apparel merchandising — it ensures every phase from material sourcing to final delivery fits within buyer deadlines.
Formula
Total Lead Time = Sample Approval Days + MAX(Fabric Sourcing, Trim Sourcing) + Sewing Days + Finishing Days + Transit Days
How to Calculate
Identify parallel processes (fabric and trim sourcing run concurrently, so use the longer duration), then add sequential phases: sample approvals, production, finishing, and shipping.
Example
Samples = 10d, Fabric = 30d, Trims = 20d (parallel → use 30d), Sewing = 25d, Finishing = 5d, Transit = 20d → Total = 10 + 30 + 25 + 5 + 20 = 90 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fabric and trim sourcing usually happen at the same time after PO issue, so total material wait time is dictated by whichever takes longer, not both combined.