Holiday Production Timelines: What to Expect
The holiday season means increased demand across all supply chains. Planning ahead ensures your gifts arrive on time.
The holiday season is our busiest time of year, and yours too. Part of our commitment to you is being upfront about what to expect during this period. When supply chains slow down for everyone, they slow down for us too. Whether you're ordering custom overseas products, domestic decorated items, or name-brand merchandise, understanding realistic timelines helps ensure your gifts arrive when you need them.
Here's what you need to know about production timelines during the holiday rush, with real examples from our recent projects.
Despite longer lead times, cut and sew items give you the opportunity to craft pieces that are 100% your own.
Cut & Sew (Fully Custom)
Cut & sew represents the pinnacle of custom merchandise: curated, elevated pieces built from the ground up to your specifications.
Standard turnaround: 45-75 days
Holiday turnaround: 65-95 days
The extended timeline during the holidays accounts for factory backlogs, extended processing times at customs, and increased shipping volumes worldwide. When you're creating something truly one-of-a-kind, plan accordingly.
Domestic Decoration on Blank Products
The shirts from Whitestone Avenue were by Richer Poorer, with the decorations designed exclusively by Whitestone. Still exclusively ours with a luxury feel and quick turnaround.
Example: Richer Poorer Tees | Whitestone Avenue
Working with quality blank products from trusted partners like Richer Poorer allows for faster turnarounds while maintaining a premium feel.
Standard turnaround: 15-20 business days
Holiday turnaround: 25-30 business days
Even with domestic decoration, the holiday season impacts turnaround times as decorators manage higher order volumes.
Always factor in longer lead times in Q4–even from brands with reliable timelines.
Name Brand Products
Example: Owala
Name-brand merchandise from established brands often has predictable timelines, but even popular partners like Owala experience holiday delays due to increased demand.
Standard turnaround: 1-2 weeks after proof approval
Holiday turnaround: 3-4 weeks after proof approval
Kitting Services
Holiday-themed kits make the perfect curated gift. Our fulfillment centers can package and ship to any recipient across the globe.
Once all your products arrive, our team can assemble, package, and distribute them to your recipients.
Standard turnaround: 5 business days from receipt of all goods & distribution list
Holiday turnaround: 10 business days from receipt of all goods & distribution list
Remember: kitting can only begin once all items have arrived at our facility.
Tips & Tricks from Whitestone's Production Team
Owala not coming quick enough? Fellow and Hydroflask are two more premium brands that will delight the recipient.
Have Backup Options Ready
Inventory moves fast during Q4. Come to the table with 2-3 product options you'd be happy with. Flexibility on product selection can save weeks on your timeline.
Build in Buffer Days
Shipping delays are inevitable during the holidays. Even expedited methods that typically offer guaranteed delivery throughout most of the year cannot be relied on 100% in November and December. Add extra buffer days to your internal deadlines.
Double-Check Shipping Information
Ensure all address information is accurate and complete, especially contact names and phone numbers. This is critical for international shipments, where incomplete information can cause significant delays at customs.
Plan Around Chinese New Year
If you're working on Q1 deliverables, please note that Chinese New Year falls from February 17–March 3, 2026. Many overseas factories close during this period, which can impact production schedules for early-year projects.
Order Earlier Than You Think You Need To
When in doubt, add two weeks to your ideal timeline. Your future self will thank you!
Bottom Line
We're here to help you navigate the holiday rush successfully. The key is planning ahead, staying flexible, and maintaining open communication with our team. If you have questions about timing for your specific project, reach out; our team is here to help. We'll help you build a realistic timeline that accounts for all the variables.
Let's make sure your holiday gifts arrive on time and exceed expectations. Have questions about timelines for your specific project? Our production team is here to help you create a realistic plan that ensures your gifts arrive on time.