In the world of custom outdoor furniture manufacturing, the production process is a carefully orchestrated sequence. But what happens when a client needs to increase or decrease their order quantity after production has already begun? This scenario, while challenging, is not uncommon and its outcome depends heavily on timing, communication, and the manufacturer's operational flexibility.
The initial stages of production involve sourcing raw materials like treated teak, powder-coated aluminum, or all-weather wicker, often in bulk quantities calculated for the original order. If a request for change comes very early, perhaps during the material cutting or framing phase, adjustments might be feasible with minimal disruption. Decreasing an order could mean halting work on specific units, though material waste might incur costs. Increasing an order at this stage may require rushing additional material purchases, potentially affecting lead times and unit cost.
The complexity escalates significantly once the production line advances. If pieces are already being assembled, stained, or woven, decreasing the order becomes problematic. The labor and materials are already invested. Manufacturers may complete the units and offer them as stock inventory, but the client is typically still responsible for the cost. Conversely, adding units mid-stream disrupts the production schedule. It requires inserting new work orders, which can delay the entire batch and often involves premium charges for expedited handling and potential overtime labor.
Transparent and immediate communication with your manufacturer is the single most critical factor. Reputable manufacturers build contingency plans and can often present options, though these usually come with financial implications such as change fees, price adjustments per unit, or revised delivery dates. The key is to understand that mid-production is the least ideal time for changes. The best practice remains finalizing all details during the design and quoting phase, ensuring your order accurately reflects your needs before the first piece of material is ever cut.
