Factory Order vs In-Stock Leasing — Pros, Cons & Delivery Times
Updated October 2025 | Reading time: 7 minutes
Deciding between a factory order (built to your exact specification) and an in-stock car (ready or nearly ready for delivery)? This guide explains the differences, delivery timelines, pricing considerations and how to choose the best route for your needs.
Quick Definitions
- In-Stock Lease: Vehicles physically available in the UK or close to landing. Fastest delivery and fewer variables.
- Factory Order Lease: Vehicle built to your chosen colour, trim and options. Longer lead time; most customisable.
Browse options now: In-Stock Leasing Deals · Car Leasing Special Offers · Search by Manufacturer
Delivery Times: What to Expect
- In-Stock: Typically the quickest route. Delivery timings vary by prep, registration and logistics.
- Factory Order: Depends on brand, model, build slot availability and shipping. Lead times can move with supply conditions.
Tip: If you have a hard deadline (e.g., current lease ending), favour in-stock or pipeline cars.
Pricing Considerations
- In-Stock: Often tied to batch pricing or specific funder support. Strong value when deals are live; choice of colour/spec may be limited.
- Factory Order: Lets you configure exactly what you want. Pricing reflects current support levels and may change if the quote expires before order confirmation.
We’ll compare both options for you and flag time-limited offers. Speak to a specialist.
Pros & Cons
In-Stock Leasing
- ✔ Fastest delivery — ideal for urgent replacements
- ✔ What you see is what you get — fewer variables
- ✔ Often the sharpest monthly rates on supported models
- • Limited choice on colour/spec
- • Popular models can sell out quickly
Factory Order Leasing
- ✔ Exact specification — colour, options, packs
- ✔ Ability to align with new registration plates if timing suits
- ✔ Helpful for niche requirements (towing, seat config)
- • Longer lead time and potential movement in ETAs
- • Quote validity and pricing support can change over time
Pipeline & Pre-Configured Cars
Between in-stock and factory order sits the pipeline car — already on order with a typical spec. Faster than a fresh build, more choice than pure in-stock.
Ask us for current pipeline availability by brand: Browse by Manufacturer
Choosing What’s Right for You
- Urgent need? Pick In-Stock or Pipeline.
- Exact spec or must-have options? Choose Factory Order.
- Budget-led? We’ll compare pricing on both routes and highlight supported models.
- Plate timing? Factory order can align with a future registration if your timings are flexible.
Reducing Delays: Practical Tips
- ✔ Decide on a second-choice colour/spec to keep options open
- ✔ Complete finance and ID checks promptly
- ✔ Confirm delivery preferences early (home/office)
- ✔ For factory orders, avoid last-minute spec changes once the build is locked
EV & Hybrid Angle
For electric and plug-in hybrid models, charging cables, heat pumps and driver-assistance packs may vary by trim. If these are important to you, a factory order or a pipeline spec that includes them is the safest choice.
New to EVs? Read: Electric Cars Explained
Next Steps
Frequently Asked Questions
Is in-stock always cheaper than factory order?
Not always. In-stock can be very sharp when supported, but factory orders may be similar depending on model support and timing. We’ll compare for you.
How accurate are factory order ETAs?
ETAs are estimates and can move with production and logistics. We’ll keep you updated throughout.
Can I change my spec after ordering?
Once a build is locked, changes may not be possible. Decide key options up front to avoid delays.
What if I need a car next month?
Focus on in-stock or pipeline cars and complete your finance checks promptly to secure delivery.
Conclusion
If you need a car quickly or want the best price on a popular spec, in-stock is usually the quickest route. If you want your exact colour and options, factory order is the way to go — just allow extra time. Either way, we’ll compare deals and timelines to match your priority: price, speed or specification.
Compare In-Stock vs Factory Order with Silverstone