Specifying a standard delivery time for linear systems can, of course, be difficult as it is affected by the size and complexity of the order. There are however several factors that affect the delivery time that you can consider.
Warehousing of linear systems affects the delivery time
An obvious factor that affects delivery time is how much inventory the supplier has. Partly, it is about how large volumes they have of individual components. The bigger the stock, the greater the possibility of a short delivery time, even if you need large quantities.
The breadth of the range is also essential. A supplier with large volumes of a limited range of products will probably still have to order some of your requested components. It can negatively affect delivery time. A supplier that classifies many different components as standard products, and thus keeps them in stock, has a significantly better opportunity to maintain short and safe delivery times. For a supplier with a large inventory and wide assortment, the average delivery time should be a week or less, including any adjustments.
Which means of transport are required?
The warehouse's location matters. If the supplier has its main warehouse relatively close to you, the delivery time could, in urgent cases, shorten to two or three days. They are not dependent on unsafe long-distance transports via air or boat. The greater the distance between you and their warehouse, the longer the delivery time. Also, the greater the uncertainty as to whether the agreed time will be able to be kept.
How flexible and service-oriented the supplier is, is also crucial. If the supplier is prepared to fly in components from Asia or send them by taxi, they are more likely to meet your goals. It is positive if the supplier has a stated aim of always guaranteeing fast delivery times. It could also be that they have chosen different transport companies in different markets to ensure that they always have the most suitable option to meet the delivery times in each region.
Capacity for manufacturing and adaptation is important
In some cases, the order is for standard components, but in many cases, it requires various customisations or a certain amount of manufacturing. On average, approximately 50 % of all orders for linear products involve some form of machining. The supplier's capacity to carry out these adjustments also affects the delivery time. Sometimes, the production is outsourced to a subcontractor, which could mean difficulties for the supplier overviewing the current capacity when they give you a delivery date.
Some suppliers have their own workshops for customisation and manufacturing, which gives them significantly better control over the process and delivery time. They also have greater flexibility to cut a lead time if necessary.
But the most important thing is that you can trust the agreed time. Sometimes, it is better with a guaranteed, slightly longer delivery time, than a quick one that turned out to be just an optimistic guess. It is crucial to evaluate how the supplier handles their logistics and whether they have the resources to keep their promises.
