Cabinet Lead Times: In-Stock vs. Made-to-Order
Published •5 min read
Lead time depends mostly on the cabinet grade. According to This Old House (updated June 2026), home centers and retailers usually deliver stock cabinets within about one to five weeks, semi-custom within about five to six weeks, and custom lead times range from about eight weeks to six months. Fixr puts custom build time at about 6 to 12 weeks. Plan the rest of your project around that window.
Typical Lead Times
| Grade | This Old House (June 2026) | Fixr (Jan. 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Stock | About 1-5 weeks | Readily available |
| Semi-custom | About 5-6 weeks | Longer than stock |
| Custom | About 8 weeks to 6 months | About 6-12 weeks to build |
What Can Slow an Order Down
- Custom sizes, special finishes or paint colors
- Specialty cabinets and accessories (pull-outs, organizers, glass doors)
- Layout changes after the order is placed
- Damaged or missing pieces that need replacing
- Busy seasons for the manufacturer
Planning Around Lead Time
- 1Finalize the layout and appliance sizes before ordering.
- 2Order early, and schedule demolition close to the delivery date so you're not without a kitchen longer than needed.
- 3Check the delivery against the order before installation day.
- 4Remember the countertop gap: stone is templated after the base cabinets are installed, and Fixr puts granite at about 2 to 3 weeks from templating to installation.
For the whole process, see what to expect during cabinet installation and the kitchen renovation planning checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do custom cabinets take?
This Old House puts custom lead times at about eight weeks to six months; Fixr cites about 6 to 12 weeks to build.
How long do stock cabinets take?
This Old House says retailers usually deliver stock cabinets within about one to five weeks.
How long do semi-custom cabinets take?
About five to six weeks, according to This Old House.
When should I order cabinets?
As soon as the layout and appliance sizes are final, then schedule demolition and installation around the confirmed delivery date.
Planning New Cabinets? Get a Quote from Mega Solutions
Mega Solutions sells and installs kitchen cabinets, and we can also install your countertops in granite, quartz, quartzite or marble. Ask us about timing for the cabinets you like, and request a personalized quote.
Sources
- This Old House, "All About Kitchen Cabinets" (updated June 2026): thisoldhouse.com
- Fixr, "How Much Does It Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets?" (updated January 2026): fixr.com
- Fixr, "Granite Countertop Installation Cost" (updated January 2025): fixr.com
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