Wondering how production lead times in China can impact your projects?
This article breaks down every key stage — from POS development to air or sea transport — to give you a complete overview of production times (30 to 60 days) and shipping (5 days to 8 weeks). Learn how to optimize your China manufacturing timelines through smart planning and logistics choices while avoiding the pitfalls that slow down your orders.
1. Getting a Quote for Your Chinese POS Displays (2 to 3 days)
A quote for your POS displays in China is usually provided within two business days, thanks to the integration of production workshops and the synergy between technical teams and 3D modeling tools. To speed up the process, share a detailed specification sheet including technical features, drawings, quantities, materials, deadlines, and visuals (PDF, PNG).
A full quote includes specifications, unit costs, shipping, and payment terms. Chinese suppliers often add details on POS design and production steps as well as quality standards.
With an integrated chain from design to production, China offers faster turnaround times than Europe or North America.
2. Prototype Development (5 to 7 days)
China excels at producing POS prototypes within 5 to 7 days. This speed comes from vertically integrated workshops, industrial automation, and experienced technical teams.
By comparison, prototyping in Europe takes 10–15 days and up to 3 weeks in North America, due to less integrated processes and higher labor costs.
Key advantages :
- Technical expertise and advanced technology : Chinese factories use 3D printing and CNC machining for fast, precise POS development.
- Integrated supply chain : The close proximity of suppliers of cardboard, plastic, and wood shortens lead times.
- Optimized 24/7 workflows : Continuous production cycles ensure prototype delivery within 5 to 7 days.
Despite the speed, final product quality remains high. Prototypes validate functionality before mass production, identifying and correcting any flaws early.
3. Industrial Production Phase (30 to 60 days)
POS display production in China includes cutting, assembly, and finishing (printing, varnishing) across materials such as corrugated cardboard, wood, acrylic, or metal.
Lead times depend on order volume, design complexity, and specific tooling (e.g., injection molds requiring 3 to 8 weeks). Quality control is performed at each stage.
Average production times :
- Cardboard display : 2–3 weeks
- Acrylic countertop display : 4–5 weeks
- Wood/MDF countertop display : 5–6 weeks
- Metal floor display : 6–8 weeks
4. Transport and Shipping (5 to 60 days)
A. Air Freight — Speed and Flexibility
Air transport is ideal for urgent deliveries or time-sensitive marketing campaigns.
A direct flight from Guangzhou or Hong Kong to Paris, New York, or London takes about 5 days, with 2–3 extra days if stopovers are needed.
Although faster, it is up to three times more expensive than sea freight due to fuel and handling costs.
Express customs clearance (within 48 hours) ensures fast delivery.
Air freight is recommended for urgent orders, premium POS displays, samples, or seasonal collections.7
B. Sea Freight — Cost Efficiency and Planning
Sea freight remains the most cost-effective option for importing POS displays from China, ideal for large planned orders.
Average lead times range from 7 weeks for a full container to 8 weeks for consolidated shipments, the latter requiring extra handling steps.
Major Chinese ports such as Nanshan, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong offer regular connections to Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Le Havre, via carriers like Cosco Shipping or CMA CGM — and similar routes to major U.S. ports.
Up to six times cheaper than air freight, sea shipping dramatically reduces costs and CO₂ emissions, supported by fuel-efficient and LNG-powered vessels.
Consolidated freight, available from as little as 1 m³, is ideal for smaller quantities.
A reliable and sustainable solution, sea freight from China to Europe ensures the best value for money for well-planned POS projects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, manufacturing a POS display in China offers a unique balance between speed, quality, and cost efficiency. With integrated supply chains and advanced production technologies, lead times can be precisely managed — from 2 days for a quote to 60 days for full production and delivery. Choosing between air or sea freight allows brands to adapt logistics to their budget and schedule. By planning ahead and working with experienced suppliers, companies can avoid delays and ensure flawless execution. Well-managed timelines ultimately turn your POS project into a true competitive advantage.
