Lead Time Calculator
Calculate lead time for manufacturing, orders, and supply chain management
Calculate Lead Time
Manufacturing Lead Time Components
Order handling, preparation time
Manufacturing, production time
Packaging, shipping time
Lead Time Results
Timeline Analysis
Immediate fulfillment
Formula Used
Lead Time = Pre-processing + Processing + Post-processing
Example: Restaurant Order
Pre-processing: 0.1 days (taking order)
Processing: 0.05 days (cooking)
Post-processing: 0.02 days (serving)
Total: 0.17 days (≈ 4 hours)
Example: Supply Chain
Supply delay: 1 day (delivery time)
Reorder delay: 14 days (bi-weekly orders)
Total: 15 days lead time
Lead Time Categories
Same Day (≤ 1 day)
Immediate fulfillment
Express services, fast food
Short (1-7 days)
Quick turnaround
Standard shipping, simple products
Standard (7-30 days)
Typical business timeframe
Custom orders, manufactured goods
Extended (30-90 days)
Longer planning required
Complex manufacturing, imports
Long (90+ days)
Significant advance planning
Custom engineering, major projects
Reduce Lead Time
Streamline pre-processing tasks
Optimize production workflows
Maintain inventory buffer stocks
Improve supplier relationships
Implement lean manufacturing
Use technology for automation
Understanding Lead Time
What is Lead Time?
Lead time is the period between the initiation and completion of a process. It's a critical metric in manufacturing, supply chain management, and project planning that helps businesses optimize operations and meet customer expectations.
Types of Lead Time
- •Manufacturing: Pre-processing + Processing + Post-processing
- •Order: Time from order placement to delivery
- •Supply Chain: Supply delay + Reorder delay
Industry Applications
Manufacturing
Production planning, capacity management
Retail
Inventory management, customer expectations
Project Management
Schedule optimization, resource allocation
Healthcare
Diagnosis timing, treatment planning
Benefits of Lead Time Management
Improved Planning
Better resource allocation and scheduling
Cost Reduction
Lower inventory costs and waste
Customer Satisfaction
Accurate delivery expectations