Case Study · Smart Hardware

US Technology Distributor: 14-16 Week Lead Times Beaten With Split Shipments

An early-warning system for long-lead parts plus negotiated split shipments kept sensor-cable supply continuous despite 14-16 week component lead times.

United States · 2022 · Smart Hardware harnesses

14-16 week component lead times

Split shipments to protect supply

Pre-CNY deadline met

Background

A US technology distributor required custom sensor cables that depended on specialized components. Several of those parts carried unusually long procurement times.

The Challenge

Critical components, including PICS sensors and specific connectors, faced 14-16 week lead times. That risked severe production delays and required upfront material prepayments from the customer.

Our Solution

We set up an early-warning mechanism for long lead-time items, negotiated split shipments so available units could ship first, and coordinated expedited shipping on the customer's carrier account to hit critical deadlines.

The Result

We mitigated the lead-time risk and kept supply continuous, with the customer accepting staggered delivery schedules and the program staying intact.

Program Specifications

Component Lead Time14-16 weeks
Delivery StrategySplit / staggered shipments