Operational Lead Times

Average Operational Lead Times

While each foodservice supply chain is unique, the following is the average operational lead time for placing an order through delivery. SPEAK TO A TRADETRANS EXPERT

ORDER CONFIGURATION

(1-2 weeks)

This process involves determining the precise make-up of the overall order(s) including equipment specifications, foodstuffs (dry and/or refrigerated/frozen), paper goods and other dry supplies. This process usually can be completed within a week or two depending on the scope of work.

QUOTATION & FINANCING

(2-3 weeks)

Pricing will be obtained from our suppliers within a week’s time once an order’s final configuration has been determined,. We will then issue our Proforma Invoice detailing shipment particulars, along with payment terms. If an order is subject to some form of advance payment, order processing will commence upon receipt of funds from the customer. Sufficient time (1-2 weeks) must be allocated for it to be received at our office before operational activity commences, especially if an order is to be shipped under Letter of Credit.

PURCHASE ORDERS

(1-8 weeks)

Production and domestic shipping lead times can be determined, but may vary from one week to eight weeks, depending on the product type once purchase orders have been issued to vendors. Most food and non-food supplies is obtained within a one- to three-week period. Any special-order food items or non-standard electrical equipment may take considerably longer to obtain owing to manufacturing lead times. Actual availability is determined at the time of order placement and communicated to the customer.

WAREHOUSE HANDLING

(1-2 weeks)

Cargo will be packed, marked and/or labeled, staged, and configured for shipment via agreed-upon mode of transport upon the warehouse receiving process.

DOCUMENTATION PREPARATION

(1-3 weeks)

This process involves preparing all necessary documents for proper customs clearance at destination. Standard documents are prepared immediately after shipment from our warehouse. Legalized documents may take 2-3 weeks to obtain from the respective consulate. Final documents are dispatched via international courier (3-4 days).

TRANSPORT LEAD TIMES

(1-6 weeks)

Ocean transit times will vary depending on the final port of discharge, the carrier’s port rotation, port congestion, weather, and other variables that may affect ocean carriage. Tentative information will be conveyed to the customer once cargo has been booked with the carrier. Air transit times can be as short as 1-2 days or up to one week depending on space availability, carrier routing and the final destination.

CUSTOMS CLEARANCE

(1-2 weeks)

Depending on the types of materials being imported, the relationship with customs officials and the capability of the customs broker, this can vary. Most goods clear customs within 7-10 days from time of entry, however, clearance time can exceed several weeks if problems arise. TradeTrans is ready to help expedite the process in any manner necessary.