PCB lead time: how long production takes and what you can do about it
Standard and urgent production, the difference between simple and multilayer boards, and the habits that keep an order on schedule.
Lead time in working days
Production time is counted in working days, not calendar days. At PCB-ELECTRA standard production takes 9 working days for single-layer, double-layer and aluminium boards, and 6 working days with urgent production. Multilayer boards (4 and 6 layers) take longer because of the additional lamination and processing steps; the calculator shows the date for your configuration.
| Board type | Standard | Urgent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 and 2 layers, aluminium | 9 working days | 6 working days |
| 4 and 6 layers | longer, shown in the calculator | shown in the calculator |
The delivery time runs from the date ELECTRA sends the written acceptance of your order (within 48 hours of receiving it), and only if the technical documentation is complete (see points 2 and 4 of the General Terms of Delivery and Sale).
Shipping time comes on top. It depends on the delivery country; the calculator and the offer show it separately, and you can decline it and organise your own transport.
What makes an order slower
- Incomplete files. A missing layer or drill file means a query and a wait for your answer.
- Unclear specification. Thickness, copper, colours or delivery format that are not stated must be clarified first.
- Special features. Castellated holes, plated milling or a custom stack-up need extra checks.
- Changes after the order. A new file version restarts the checks.
How to keep to the schedule
- Check your files before sending them (see the DFM checklist and checking Gerber files).
- Fill in the specification completely, using the specification checklist.
- Choose urgent production only for the boards that need it; the price is higher (see price factors).
- For a series, plan the first order as a prototype and the second as the series (see from prototype to series).
Know the steps
What happens during the days of production is described in how a PCB is made. Every board is tested before shipping (see electrical test and AOI), and this is already part of the lead time.
Calculate the price and the delivery date of your board in the price calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How long does standard PCB production take?
9 working days for single-layer, double-layer and aluminium boards. Multilayer boards take longer; the calculator shows the date.
Is urgent production available?
Yes. Urgent production takes 6 working days for single-layer, double-layer and aluminium boards, at a higher price.
Does shipping time count in the lead time?
Shipping comes on top of production time and depends on the delivery country. The calculator and the offer show it separately.
Browse the questions and answers →
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