The expediting of raw materials, machines, equipment, parts, systems and subsystems in fabrication, manufacturing, logistics is a common but necessary path for many companies. Reasons for expediting include missed contracted delivery dates, damage to stock, supplier-related issues and tight customer requirements.

Expediting can be a burdensome and stressful strategy in the purchasing process. Many stakeholders relying on delivery dates are involved in this process, especially when parts are critical. Even though “chasing” suppliers is not a job a buyer is supposed to do, it ends up doing so most of the time.

Lack of accurate and timely information, use of multiple forms of communication and absence of a formal process for expediting are some of the challenges that buyers must deal with on a daily basis while discussing revised delivery dates.