If you order custom colors from our trash can factory, the typical additional lead time ranges from two to three weeks. This is not a random delay — it comes down to the science of color formulation and the logistics of production planning.

First, we need to create a custom color match. Whether you provide a Pantone code or a sample from an existing bin, our lab will mix pigments to achieve the exact shade. This process alone usually takes three to five business days. We test the color under different lighting conditions to ensure consistency, and we send you a physical chip for approval. If you approve quickly, we move to the next step. If the match is too far off, we may need another round, which adds more days.

Once the color is approved, we must slot your order into our production schedule. Standard colors are always in stock, so they can be produced immediately. Custom colors require a dedicated production run. Because switching colors on our molding and paint lines requires a complete cleanup between batches — to avoid any cross-contamination — we batch custom orders together to maximize efficiency. This means your order might wait until we have enough custom orders or until an available time slot opens. This scheduling wait typically accounts for one to two weeks, depending on the season.

Another factor is material procurement. Some custom colors require special pigments that we do not keep in inventory. If the pigment needs to be ordered from a supplier, that can add several days to the lead time. Rare or non-standard colors may need a custom pigment blend, which is even slower.

So, in summary: color matching takes 3–5 days, scheduling wait takes 1–2 weeks, and possible pigment procurement adds a few more days. Together, you should expect a total additional lead time of about two to three weeks. For large orders, however, we are able to start the color matching process in parallel with your order's other prep work, which sometimes reduces the total delay.

We recommend reaching out to our sales team early. If you give us your custom color at the quote stage, we can begin the matching process before you even place the order. That way, the color approval is already done, and the only remaining delay is the production slot. In our experience, this can cut the added lead time down to just one week.

Finally, if you are in a hurry, we offer a rushed custom color program for an additional fee. This prioritizes your color match and production run, potentially reducing the added time to only 5–7 days. However, this is subject to pigment availability and current production capacity.

Custom colors are a great way to brand your facility or match your company identity. The extra wait is minimal compared to the lasting value of a unique, professional-looking trash can. We always aim to be transparent about timelines, so you can plan your project with confidence. If you have a specific color in mind, ask us for a precise lead time quote — we will give you an exact date based on our current schedule.