Hello, everyone!

Thank you for tuning in to this month’s newsletter. At OAC Consulting, we understand that successful construction projects depend on collaboration. This Month, we want to highlight the importance of addressing long lead time items early in the process and how owners, architects, and contractors can work together to overcome the challenges they present.

Over the past few years, global supply chain disruptions have demonstrated how critical early planning and teamwork are to keeping projects on track. Items like HVAC systems, specialty glass, and electrical equipment can take months to procure, and when delays occur, they affect everyone involved. While it may be tempting to view procurement as the contractor’s responsibility, tackling these challenges requires input and cooperation from all parties right from the start.

Owners, architects, and contractors each play a vital role. Architects can design with realistic procurement timelines in mind, selecting materials and systems that align with current market conditions. Owners can engage early and procure products, ensuring decisions are made in a timely manner to avoid bottlenecks. Contractors can provide valuable insight into lead times, supplier reliability, and installation sequencing to guide procurement strategies. When all parties come together at the outset, projects are more likely to stay on schedule and within budget.

2025 Long Lead Time Items to Address Early

• Steel and Structural Materials: Global demand continues to cause delays for essential items like rebar and beams. Current lead times are approximately 6 to 9 months.

• Custom Windows and Glass: Tailored finishes and non-standard sizes often have significant manufacturing lead times. Expect lead times of 4 to 5 Months.

• HVAC Systems: Advanced systems can take months to produce due to their complexity and high demand. Lead times range from 6 to 10 months, depending on unit size and custom features.

• Electrical Equipment: Items like switchgear and custom panels remain affected by ongoing supply chain challenges. Lead times can be as long as 17 to 20 Months for low voltage drawout switchgear.

• Specialty Equipment: Bespoke systems, such as elevators, frequently face extended delivery timelines. Lead times for elevators have increased, though specific durations vary based on manufacturer and customization. Approximation is 12 Months but can vary heavily due to product and customization needs. It’s best to start discussing the amount and level of specialty equipment required for the project early.

Addressing these items early starts with fostering open communication. By identifying long lead time items during the design phase and incorporating procurement timelines into the project schedule, teams can avoid many of the delays that cause frustration and cost overruns. Adjusting designs or selecting alternative materials early on can also help keep the project moving if certain items are unavailable or delayed.

A perfect example of the challenges surrounding long lead time items was our work on a recent project. During construction, obtaining switchgear became a significant hurdle due to extended lead times. This challenge required close collaboration with the owner, contractor, and suppliers to identify a solution. OAC was able to solve these hurdles through close collaboration and creative solutions ensuring the schedule remained intact.

While the situation arose because the equipment was ordered later than ideal due to the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, it highlights the importance of early coordination and planning. Our involvement, though starting mid-project, allowed us to help navigate this issue effectively. It was a clear example of how unexpected delays such as a global pandemic can occur and how proactive teamwork can mitigate potential setbacks. The project ultimately demonstrated the value of communication and flexibility when addressing long lead time challenges.

At OAC Consulting, we specialize in coordinating these efforts. Our role is to bridge the gap between all stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and alignment from the start. By helping to identify critical items early and guiding procurement strategies, we create a foundation for success that benefits everyone involved.

We hope you find this newsletter useful and look forward to you tuning in next month. Please feel free to follow up with any questions you may have.

Warm regards,
The OAC Consulting Team