Lead time is usually not a huge issue as long as the lead time is consistent. 3 days or 3 months is usually not a problem since you can build you manufacturing

Lead time is usually not a huge issue as long as the lead time is consistent. 3 days or 3 months is usually not a problem since you can build you manufacturing process around a given lead time. The cost of transport is going to be much more of a concern. If it takes one month to get a driveshaft in and three months to get windshields, you just order the windshields a couple months earlier than the driveshafts since you won't need the windshields until the last bit of the assembly line. Lead times are an issue for perishable goods though. If your pomegranates are going to be rotten by the time they arrive in port, whats the point.