What are the typical lead times for stock and made-to-order foam materials?
Short answer: Standard warehouse items can ship within 1–3 business days. Made-to-order IXPE/EPE foams usually require 7–14 days for production, depending on thickness, density and format.
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This article explains typical lead times for EU buyers depending on whether the requested Isolon, Warmlex or Isolontape materials are available from stock or require production.
Lead times for stock materials
The following items are normally available for quick dispatch:
- Warmlex (EPE) rolls in common thicknesses (2–10 mm);
- Standard Isolontape (XPE/IXPE adhesive tapes) in typical widths;
- Basic densities of Isolon 300 (XPE) and Isolon 500 (IXPE) used in flooring and packaging.
These items can usually be prepared for shipment within 1–3 working days after order confirmation, subject to volume and palletisation.
Note: Quick dispatch does not include international transit time. Delivery to the EU varies by destination and Incoterms.
Lead times for made-to-order materials
Custom production is required when the order includes:
- non-standard thickness or intermediate thicknesses;
- specific densities (for example, 25–200 kg/m³ for IXPE or 18–45 kg/m³ for EPE);
- individual roll widths, sheet sizes or cutting formats;
- surface options such as foil, film or high-strength adhesive layers.
Production cycles for IXPE/EPE foams typically take:
— 7–10 days for common grades;
— 10–14 days for customised densities, special coatings or large-volume batches;
— up to 20 days during peak periods or when multiple formats are required.
Important: Production lead time does not include export procedures or EU customs clearance. These steps depend on your chosen Incoterms and local customs processing.
Recommended planning for EU buyers
- For stable projects: place the next order when your stock reaches 30–40 %.
- For new projects: include 2–3 extra weeks for initial testing and approval.
- For made-to-order formats: confirm technical parameters early to avoid delays.
- For multi-SKU shipments: allow additional time for consolidation and packaging.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you hold materials in reserve for scheduled projects? Yes, this can be arranged for recurring EU clients with agreed planning.
- Do lead times differ for tapes? Standard Isolontape is usually available from stock; custom widths or adhesives require production time.
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