What it means
Examples often include electrical switchgear and panels, transformers, rooftop units and other mechanical equipment, specialty light fixtures, custom millwork, imported finishes, glazing and certain door hardware. Lead times change with market conditions, so a number from last year may not hold today.
An item becomes long lead when its delivery time is longer than the time available before it is needed on site.
Why it matters
A single late item can stop a whole sequence. A rooftop unit that arrives late delays the ceiling below; a light fixture that is on back order delays commissioning. Ordering requires approved submittals and, often, a deposit, so owner decisions on selections have to come early.
In winter, deliveries and installation can also be affected by weather.
How HSM handles it
HSM identifies long-lead items during pre-construction and builds them into the schedule before drawings are final. Our electrical and mechanical teams know which pieces of equipment are likely to take time, and our procurement follows up with suppliers on confirmed dates.
On projects with specialty materials and many custom fixtures, such as our featured 40,000+ sq ft office renovation with over 100 specialty light fixtures, early ordering is essential. We keep a log of every critical order and report on it.
What to plan for
Make selections and approvals quickly for items on the long-lead list. If you are unsure, tell us, and we can suggest an alternative that arrives sooner.
Ask us for the current lead times on the main items in your project. They change, and early information lets you choose between waiting and switching to an alternative.