Lead time
/glossary/lead-timeTime elapsed from order confirmation to goods ready for dispatch or delivery.
In detail
Lead Time is the total time from order confirmation to goods being ready for dispatch or delivery. Stock items: 3-7 days. Mill-direct standard grades: 14-21 days. Mill-direct alloy grades (SA213 T11/T22): 21-30 days. IBR Form III-C adds 5-10 days; TPI adds 5-10 days. Lead time varies by quantity, grade availability, mill schedule, and inspection requirements. Understanding lead time is critical for project planning, especially for boiler maintenance windows and construction schedules.
Where you'll meet this in procurement
You will meet Lead time when setting commercial and logistics terms. Spell out Lead time on the RFQ or PO so price, quantity, delivery point, and lead time are comparable across suppliers and disputes at dispatch are avoided.