That's an excellent question, and one we hear often from property managers, municipalities, and businesses planning large projects. The lead time for a large quantity of custom outdoor trash cans isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, as it depends on several key factors. Typically, for a substantial bulk order, you should plan on a timeline ranging from 4 to 12 weeks from finalized design and deposit to shipment.
The primary factor is the level of customization. Are we modifying an existing model with your logo and color, or engineering a completely new design? Simple logo imprinting on standard bins will be on the shorter end. A fully custom shape, unique opening mechanism, or specialized material will require more time for tooling and prototyping.
Order quantity itself plays a role. While larger runs are more efficient per unit, they simply take longer to produce. Material availability is also crucial. Standard polyethylene resins are readily available, but specific recycled content or specialty coatings may have longer procurement times.
Finally, the manufacturer's current schedule and your project's place in the queue matter. The best approach is to consult with us early in your planning process. Provide your desired quantity, customization ideas, and ideal installation date. We can then give you a detailed, firm production schedule and work with you to ensure your custom bins arrive precisely when you need them. Good planning is the key to a successful large-scale installation.