How long does it take to produce a custom or OEM guitar order? | KASPAR Guide

How Long Does It Take to Produce a Custom or OEM Guitar Order?

Professionals often ask, How long does it take to produce a custom or OEM guitar order? To help you plan projects and manage client expectations, this article covers standard production times, key influencing factors, and what you can expect across the guitar industry.

Typical Production Lead Times

- Standard Custom Guitars:

- Most custom guitar orders take 3 to 6 months to complete.

- Some boutique builders may deliver in 8-12 weeks for select models (Source: NAMM, 2023).

- OEM Guitar Orders:

- Bulk OEM orders typically require 3 to 9 months depending on quantity and customization.

- Lead times can extend up to 12 months for highly tailored manufacturing contracts.

Key Factors Influencing Production Time

Design Complexity

- Highly customized body shapes, neck profiles, or inlay work may increase build time by several weeks.

Materials & Sourcing

- Exotic woods or specialty hardware can add 2-4 weeks due to sourcing and quality inspection.

- Sustainable sourcing requirements may also impact timelines (C.F. Martin & Co. Sustainability Reports, 2022).

Order Volume

- Larger OEM orders (500+ units) generally require additional lead time for sourcing, scheduling, and quality assurance.

Production Queue & Capacity

- Busy production schedules, especially post trade shows or new product launches, may add weeks to delivery.

Quality Assurance & Testing

- Rigorous QA processes—including playability tests, stress testing, and final inspection—can occupy up to 10% of the total build time.

Industry Trends & Best Practices

- Early Planning Pays Off: Top manufacturers advise placing large or complex orders 12 months in advance whenever possible.

- Prototyping Time: Allow 2-6 weeks for prototype build and approval before full production.

- Seasonal Fluctuations: Q2 & Q4 often see longer lead times due to industry events and holidays (NAMM, 2023).

Quick Reference: Main Timeframes

- Custom, single order: 3-6 months

- OEM, standard order: 4-9 months

- High-volume OEM, complex: Up to 12 months

Authoritative Industry Sources

- NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Market Reports

- Fender Custom Shop Production Updates

- C.F. Martin & Co. Manufacturing Insights

- Guitar.com Industry Analysis

Conclusion

For professionals navigating custom or OEM guitar builds, understanding the standard production timelines—plus key factors that affect schedules—enables better planning and customer satisfaction. Always consult your manufacturer early, confirm all specifications up front, and stay updated on trends for the most efficient results.