Q: What is the standard lead time for zipper orders?
Standard lead time for zippers is best expressed as a range, because it depends on components and finishing. For stock tape, stock teeth and a standard slider, production commonly runs in the region of two to four weeks after approval of the sample and receipt of the deposit. A custom tape colour adds dyeing time, often one to three weeks, and new tooling can add several weeks more. Shipping time is separate and depends on the Incoterm and the route. Ask for the lead time in stages: material preparation, production, inspection and dispatch, so you can see where the time goes. Confirm the trigger date; a lead time counted from the order date rather than from sample approval is misleading. Also ask for the standard capacity per week and the current booking position. Donglong quotes lead time in stages so a buyer can see which step drives the date.