What to Expect in Lead Times for Chemical Storage Tanks: Planning Ahead

When it comes to chemical storage solutions, proper planning can make all the difference between a smooth project timeline and costly delays. Understanding lead times for different tank materials and manufacturers is crucial for project managers, engineers, and facility operators who need reliable chemical storage systems.

The chemical storage tank industry has experienced significant shifts in lead times over recent years, influenced by supply chain challenges, increased demand, and material availability. Here's what you can expect from Poly Processing, and from other manufacturers in the chemical storage tank industry.

Fiberglass Tanks: The Long Wait

If you're considering fiberglass chemical storage tanks, be prepared for significant lead times. Currently, fiberglass tank manufacturers are quoting several months to a year or more for delivery. Five to six months is the norm. This extended timeline is due to several factors:

• Manufacturing labor and processes requiring specialized resins and reinforcement materials
• Limited production capacity in the fiberglass tank industry
• Supply chain constraints affecting raw materials

These factors are inherent to the fiberglass tank manufacturing industry, hindering shorter lead times no matter who the manufacturer is.

Industry-Wide Challenges

Many of our other competitors are also experiencing extended lead times, often exceeding our 7-9 week standard. Some plastic tank manufacturers are quoting 18-20 weeks or longer, depending on tank specifications and molding capabilities.

Poly Processing Standard Lead Times: 7-9 Weeks

Poly Processing has worked hard to maintain competitive delivery times of 7-9 weeks after order and drawing approval for our chemical storage tanks. Larger multiple tank orders and complex specifications may see longer lead times, depending on quantity of tanks, accessory complexity, and other factors. 

This short timeframe reflects our commitment to effective manufacturing processes, strategic inventory management, strong supplier relationships, and understanding our customers needs. Our streamlined production allows us to deliver quality tanks without the extended wait times that have become common in the industry.

3 Manufacturing Sites for Cost Effective Shipping and Delivery

Why Lead Times Matter in Chemical Storage Planning

Extended lead times can significantly impact your overall project schedule. A delay in tank delivery can cascade through your entire installation timeline, affecting several critical operational dependencies. For example:

• Site preparation schedules
• Contractor availability
• Equipment installation sequences
• Project commissioning dates

Longer lead times can also affect project budgets through extended temporary storage needs, potential rush shipping costs, contractor standby time, and delayed production startup.

Factors That Influence Lead Times

As you design your chemical storage system, it’s important to be aware of a few of the factors that can influence the delivery date of your tank. Note the following.

Tank Specifications

• Size and capacity: Larger tanks typically require longer manufacturing times.
• Material requirements: Specialized coatings or materials can extend production.
• Custom features: Unique fittings, outlets, or accessories add manufacturing time.
• Compliance requirements: Tanks meeting specific industry standards may need additional processing time.

Manufacturing Complexity

• Welding and fabrication time: FRP and high-density linear polyethylene tanks with semi complex geometries are more labor intensive and require more manufacturing hours.
• Quality control processes: Testing and inspection procedures
• Material sourcing: Availability of specific grades of materials

Market Conditions

• Order volume: High demand periods can extend lead times.
• Raw material availability: Supply chain disruptions affect production schedules.
• Seasonal fluctuations: Certain times of year can see increased demand.

Planning Strategies for Success

To keep your chemical tank’s lead time as short as possible, follow these planning best practices.

Not Every Tank Manufacturer Meets ASTM Standards. Does Yours?

Start Early

Begin your tank procurement process as early as possible in your project planning phase. Don't wait until the last minute to place orders, especially for critical applications. Poly Processing is here to help you plan your tank system, and our specialists can assist you with a successful planning phase.

Build in Buffer Time

While most Poly Processing tanks can be delivered as quickly as seven weeks, there are occasional exceptions to the rule. In some cases, you may need to add buffer time to your project schedule to account for potential delays. 

Communicate Requirements Clearly

Provide detailed specifications upfront to avoid delays caused by design changes or clarifications during manufacturing.

Working with Your Tank Supplier

No matter who your tank supplier is, be sure to ask the right questions. When evaluating suppliers, inquire about:

• Current lead times for your specific requirements
• Factors that could extend or shorten delivery times
• Rush order capabilities and associated costs
• Progress reporting and communication protocols

Establish clear expectations. Ensure your supplier provides the following:

• Written confirmation of lead times
• Regular progress updates
• Advance notice of any potential delays
• Clear shipping and delivery schedules

The Value of Reliable Lead Times

Our 7-9 week lead time commitment reflects our understanding of how critical timing is to your projects. While others in the industry struggle with extended delays, we've invested in:

• Effective manufacturing processes
• Strategic material inventory
• Strong supplier partnerships
• Experienced project management

This allows us to deliver quality chemical storage tanks when you need them, helping keep your projects on schedule and within budget.

The Chemical Tank You Need, When You Need It

In today's challenging supply chain environment, understanding and planning for lead times is more important than ever. While fiberglass tanks may require several months or longer and many competitors are quoting extended delivery times, our 7-9 week standard demonstrates our commitment to serving your project needs efficiently.

The key to successful chemical storage tank procurement is early planning, clear communication, and working with a supplier who understands the importance of reliable delivery times. By starting your planning process early, you can help ensure your chemical storage needs are met without compromising your overall project schedule.

At Poly Processing, we ask when you need the tanks delivered. This helps us understand the timeline needed to meet your expectations.

Ready to discuss your chemical storage tank requirements? Contact us today to learn how our efficient lead times can support your project timeline and help you avoid the extended delays common elsewhere in the industry.