Ordering a car is often a thrilling experience. Whether it’s your first vehicle or a new addition to a growing collection, there’s a unique sense of anticipation in customizing your dream car and watching it take shape. But once the order is placed, the big question remains: how long does it take for a car to be built after ordering? The answer isn’t straightforward and depends on several key factors such as the manufacturer, vehicle type, customization options, supply chain issues, and production delays. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know to manage your expectations and understand the timeline from order placement to car delivery.
Understanding the Vehicle Manufacturing Timeline
It’s important to distinguish between placing an order and the start of production. Once you order a car, especially one with specific customizations, it doesn’t immediately go into production. The timeline can be broken into several major phases:
- Order Placed: This is the point at which a customer’s order is recorded by the manufacturer or dealer.
- Scheduling and Build Assignment: The car moves into the production queue, which involves assigning resources and labor.
- Production: Includes body assembly, painting, final assembly, and quality checks.
- Logistics and Delivery: Once off the production line, cars go through transport logistics to dealerships or customer homes in some cases.
Let’s explore each phase in detail to get a realistic view of the timeframes involved.
Time Between Ordering and Production Start
Once you’ve decided on a vehicle model and selected your preferred color, trim, and optional features, your order still needs to be processed and queued. This is often a neglected step when estimating timelines.
The average wait is between 3 to 6 weeks before the car even starts moving through the factory line. In busy periods or if your configuration is highly customized, this can stretch beyond six weeks. For example, ordering a high-end luxury car or a vehicle with specialized equipment may move you further down the scheduling queue.
This initial processing time varies widely between automakers but is often determined by:
- Stock availability of that particular configuration
- Factory production capacity
- The number of orders the manufacturer has pending
Vehicle Assembly: From Factory Floor to Finishing Touches
Once the car enters the assembly line, it passes through numerous production stages. The entire vehicle production phase can last anywhere from 14 to 30 days depending on various factors which we will explore below.
Body-in-White Stage
This is the foundational stage where the car’s frame and shell are manufactured. Steel and aluminum panels are stamped, welded, and structured into the skeletal form of the car. This stage usually takes one to two days per vehicle.
Painting and Curing
During the paint process, multiple layers—primer, base coat, and clear coat—are applied and cured using ovens. Each step may last only hours, but timing is carefully controlled. This stage typically lasts about two to three days.
Final Assembly Line
This is where the vehicle comes fully to life. Components like:
- Engines
- Transmission systems
- Wiring harnesses
- Interior fittings
- Rims and glass
are installed. This entire process can take between 10 to 15 days if no delays occur. However, production bottlenecks — such as parts shortages — can extend this by an additional week or two.
Testing and Quality Control
Once fully assembled, the vehicle undergoes automated diagnostics, functional tests, and even a short drive to simulate real-world conditions. This is performed on a rolling test rig before final inspection by quality control teams. This stage usually takes 1 to 3 days, depending on the complexity of the system components and vehicle type.
Logistics: Post-Production Transportation
Once built, vehicles don’t always go straight to the customer. The delivery timeline depends on the location of the factory and the chosen dealership or home delivery system.
Transportation can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks, especially if imported from overseas. Cars produced in Germany, Japan, or South Korea often face longer delivery times due to the complexity of international shipping and customs clearance.
Domestic Versus International Builds
In markets like the United States, cars made in domestic factories (i.e., in states like Alabama, Tennessee, or Michigan) tend to have shorter transportation times. These vehicles are often driven or transported within a week via rail or truck to the dealer.
In contrast, cars manufactured in other continents require:
- Shipping by boat or plane
- Customs documentation for imports
- Logistics distribution
These processes can add several extra weeks to the timeline.
Shipping Delay Risks
Recent global events, including trade restrictions, shipping shortages, and the pandemic, have had a measurable impact on vehicle delivery times. For example, the 2021 microchip shortage affected car production, but it also delayed the shipment of complete vehicles. While production risks are easing, it’s a good idea to prepare yourself for unexpected shipping delays.
Key Influencers in Custom Build TimeFrames
One of the most variable aspects of vehicle delivery timing is the customization level. Some buyers order cars with only minor options, while others request bespoke interiors or advanced engine upgrades. Knowing your configuration’s impact on build time is crucial in estimating delivery.
Popular Trim Levels vs. Bespoke Orders
If you’re buying one of the most popular configurations—like a base-level SUV or a hybrid midsize sedan—the vehicle may already be on the assembly line or in production. This can considerably reduce wait times, especially at dealerships with “rolling inventory.”
However, if you’ve opted for a:
- One-of-a-kind color scheme
- Custom stitching and materials in the interior
- Factory-installed performance package
…your car might be placed in a special production batch, which could take up to 6 to 10 additional weeks.
Supply Chain Disruptions
The global supply chain determines the timeline not just for assembly but also for parts scheduling. For example, if a car requires a specific transmission from a supplier in South Korea and that facility experiences a disruption, it delays the entire build.
In 2023-2024, chip shortages, aluminum pricing spikes, and rubber production issues caused average vehicle build timelines to increase by up to 25%.
Factory-Level Bottlenecks
Some models are constrained due to capacity limitations at manufacturing plants. This is particularly true for high-performance cars produced in specialty locations. Examples include the Porsche Taycan (built in Zuffenhausen, Germany) or the Ford Bronco (built at a single plant in Michigan). Factory limitations mean that even with low order volumes, there’s a cap on how many vehicles can be produced in a given time.
Vehicle Type and Complexity
Another major factor that affects delivery times is the nature of the vehicle you’ve chosen.
Sedans vs. SUVs: Timing Considerations
In general, small sedans have shorter build times compared to large SUVs or performance coupes. This is because:
- Many have standardized production lines
- Less equipment per square foot
- Less demand for complex configurations
For instance, a Toyota Corolla might take around 18–22 days from build to handover. In contrast, a fully loaded Mercedes-Benz GLS might require more labor hours, time to source exotic materials, and longer shipping from Europe.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Build Timelines
EVs take longer to build due to the complexity of battery systems, software integration, and wiring systems. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs often have dual motors, in-car infotainment systems, and software calibrations—all of which add time to the assembly process.
Additionally, battery builds are usually outsourced to suppliers and integrated later, leading to more coordination and potential for delay. Industry estimates indicate that building an EV can add about 1–3 weeks to the production time compared to ICE vehicles.
EV Models With Extended Wait Times
Some electric vehicles face especially long lead times. For example:
| Model | Estimated Build + Delivery Time |
|---|---|
| Tesla Cybertruck | Up to 12 weeks |
| Ford F-150 Lightning | Approx. 8–10 weeks |
| Lucid Air | 14–16 weeks or more |
Lead Time Variability by Manufacturer
Each car manufacturer follows different production schedules and efficiency practices. Some brands emphasize just-in-time production, while others may maintain buffer inventories to cushion order delays.
Luxury vs. Mainstream Brands
Luxury brands (such as BMW, Audi, and Lexus) can take longer to build a vehicle due to highly detailed interiors and specific quality control requirements. Additionally, some luxury cars may require handcrafted elements that naturally increase production time.
Mainstream automotive groups like Toyota and Honda are typically faster due to high-volume manufacturing and extensive supply chain integration.
Average Build Time by Manufacturer
Based on publicly available data from 2024, here’s a comparative view:
| Manufacturer | Average Build Time (Days) | Shipping Time (Days) | Total Avg. Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota | 16 | 12 | 28 |
| BMW (Germany) | 21 | 28 | 49 |
| Ford | 18 | 18 | 36 |
| Tesla | 24 | 7–30 | 31–54 |
Dealer Stock Strategy and Immediate Availability
In some markets, dealerships maintain limited fleets of already built cars to satisfy customers who prefer shorter waiting periods. These are typically base models or pre-selected package vehicles.
If you’re aiming to reduce your wait time, you can check if your chosen dealership has a car in their inventory that matches your desired configuration. Often, you can save 4–8 weeks by choosing a stock model instead of a fully customized build.
Practical Tips for Managing Wait Times
Having a realistic understanding of delivery time is great, but what can you do to minimize that time or prepare better for it?
Order During Low-Demand Seasons
Many automakers ramp up production during summer or early fall due to seasonal demand. However, ordering during months like January to March could potentially place you in a shorter queue.
This is particularly relevant when ordering limited-run models or in-demand electrified vehicles.
Be Thoughtful About Customization
Custom paint or hand-stitched interiors sound exciting, but they can easily add a month to your delivery. Decide whether every option is worth the trade-off in wait time or consider choosing a dealer with pre-ordered cars.
Engage Directly with the Factory
Certain manufacturers, including Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW, offer factory-direct orders with improved transparency into build timelines. These can be particularly useful for keeping track of delays or priority shifts.
Set Realistic Expectations With Alerts
Finally, set up order notifications via your dealership or manufacturer app. These updates help you track when the vehicle enters production, testing, and shipping phases—making the waiting period more transparent and easier to predict.
Conclusion: Managing Expectations with Transparency
In summary, the timeline for a car to be built after ordering varies significantly and depends on several production-related and logistical factors. Ten weeks can often be a conservative estimate, while 12 to 18 weeks is more realistic in many cases—especially now that many manufacturers are dealing with global supply chains and limited production capacity in some sectors.
By choosing a model type and trim level strategically, avoiding high customization, and remaining aware of production and shipping delays, you can minimize the time you’ll wait between ordering and driving off the lot.
Whether you’re building a luxury car overseas or opting for a domestic EV, understanding the building blocks behind car construction can help you plan better and build the anticipation—because every car journey begins long before the engine starts.
Ready to make your next car purchase? Understanding “How long does it take for a car to be built after ordering?” ensures you’ll be better prepared to navigate the exciting world of vehicle manufacturing and avoid unnecessary wait-time surprises.
How long does it typically take to build a car after ordering?
The time it takes to build a car after placing an order can vary significantly based on several factors, including the car’s make and model, customization options, and the manufacturer’s current production capacity. On average, the process can take anywhere from 2 to 6 months. For popular models with high demand or vehicles with extensive customizations, the wait time may be longer, especially if certain components need to be sourced from different regions.
Manufacturers typically start the production timeline once the order is confirmed and any necessary deposits are made. Delays can occur due to supply chain issues, labor shortages, or high global demand for certain parts. If the car is being imported from another country, shipping and customs clearance can add additional weeks to the timeline. Buyers are usually kept informed throughout the build and delivery process through their dealership or directly by the manufacturer.
What stages are involved in building a car after it’s ordered?
Once a car is ordered, it goes through several stages before delivery. These include order confirmation, production scheduling, actual manufacturing, quality checks, and transportation to the dealership. The process starts at the factory, where the vehicle is assembled using automated and manual processes. This includes installing the engine, body panels, electrical systems, and interior components.
After assembly, the vehicle undergoes a series of inspections and tests to ensure it meets safety and performance standards. This includes test drives, fluid checks, and emissions testing. Once cleared, the car is prepared for delivery, which may involve shipping across the country or even internationally. Following arrival at the dealership, the car is inspected again, sometimes prepped for customer delivery with final details like cleaning and paperwork completion.
Can you speed up the car production timeline if you pay more?
While some automakers may offer priority delivery for specific trim levels or configurations, paying more does not always guarantee a faster production timeline. The manufacturing process is usually tied to the factory’s production schedule, which is determined by logistics, supply chain availability, and plant capacity. Certain premium brands or dealers may offer concierge services or expedited shipping options for an additional fee, but these typically affect delivery rather than the actual build time.
However, in some cases, ordering a vehicle that is already in stock or in production can help avoid long wait times. If a buyer wants a car with rare options or in a high-demand market, dealers may suggest purchasing a slightly different configuration that is already scheduled for production. These vehicles may then be customized or upgraded by the dealer for a fee, which could shorten the time to delivery by weeks or even months without the buyer waiting for a new build from the factory.
How do supply chain issues affect car production timelines?
Supply chain disruptions—especially in recent years—have significantly impacted car production timelines. These issues often stem from shortages of critical components such as semiconductor chips, which are essential for infotainment systems, safety features, and engine controls. When these parts are delayed or unavailable, automakers must halt or slow down certain lines of production. This has led to significant increases in wait times for consumers who order custom-built vehicles.
In addition to semiconductor issues, disruptions such as global pandemics, raw material shortages, and shipping delays have further strained production schedules. Some automakers have resorted to building vehicles without certain optional features and retrofitting them later once components become available. While manufacturers are increasingly adapting to these challenges, potential car buyers should be prepared for the possibility of delays and should communicate regularly with their dealership or sales representative to monitor their order’s progress.
Are electric vehicles taking longer to build than traditional cars?
In general, electric vehicles (EVs) can take longer to build than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles due to unique supply chain challenges, particularly with battery production and sourcing raw materials. Battery pack manufacturing is a complex process that requires specialized facilities and precise assembly. Additionally, the global demand for lithium, cobalt, and nickel—key elements in battery production—has led to bottlenecks that affect production schedules.
However, some manufacturers have streamlined their EV assembly lines to match or even outpace ICE production efficiency. For example, Tesla and newer EV-focused companies have developed more integrated production systems designed specifically for battery-powered cars. That said, high consumer demand for EVs combined with ongoing infrastructure developments in battery and charging technology means some models may still experience longer wait times than conventional vehicles. As the automotive industry transitions more fully to electrification, production times are expected to become more consistent across all vehicle types.
What is the difference between in-stock vehicles and custom-ordered vehicles?
In-stock vehicles are those that dealerships already have available for sale, either because they were built based on predicted demand or transferred from other locations. These cars can be purchased and driven away in a matter of days, making them ideal for buyers who don’t want to wait for a custom build. They may not include every desired option, but in many cases, they offer a close match at a faster delivery timeline.
Custom-ordered vehicles, on the other hand, are built to the buyer’s specifications and may include unique color choices, trim levels, features, or packages that aren’t readily available. Once the build order is placed, the car is manufactured and shipped directly to the dealership. This often results in a longer waiting period but ensures the owner receives a vehicle tailored to their preferences. Buyers should consider whether the advantages of customization outweigh the convenience of immediate availability.
What can I do to ensure a smooth car ordering and delivery process?
To ensure a smooth car ordering process, start by doing thorough research on your desired model, including available options, trim levels, and current market availability. Working with a knowledgeable sales representative or dealer can help manage expectations and ensure your chosen configuration is feasible. It’s also important to fully understand the payment structure, including any deposits required to place the order and the financing or leasing options available.
Stay engaged throughout the production and delivery phases by checking in with your dealer or receiving email or phone updates from the manufacturer. Some car companies now offer online tracking tools to show where your vehicle is in the production line or during transit. Once the car arrives at the dealership, schedule a pre-delivery inspection to verify all features and functionality are working as expected. Planning for insurance, registration, and any additional accessories before pick-up day will also help streamline your experience.