One of the first questions buyers ask after requesting a quote is: how long is this actually going to take? It’s a fair question — especially if you’re working around a construction schedule, a business opening, or a seasonal deadline.
The honest answer is that your total timeline depends on a few key phases. Here’s a clear breakdown of what to expect from order to complete building.
Phase 1: Engineering & Permit Drawings (2.5–3 Weeks)
After your order is placed, Mason Steel Buildings gets to work on your engineering and permit drawings. Every building is custom-engineered for your specific location — accounting for local wind loads, snow loads, and seismic requirements.
Permit drawings are typically ready within 2.5 to 3 weeks from the time your order is confirmed. These stamped, certified drawings are what you’ll submit to your local building department to pull your permit.
What happens during this phase:
- Your building is engineered to meet local code requirements
- Stamped structural drawings are prepared
- Anchor bolt plans are provided for your concrete contractor
This is also the time to get your concrete contractor lined up. Anchor bolts need to be set and cured before your building ships — so the sooner your foundation is underway, the smoother your timeline will be.
Phase 2: Production (6–16 Weeks)
Once engineering is complete and your order moves into production, lead times typically run between 6 and 16 weeks depending on:
- Building size and complexity — larger, more customized buildings take longer to fabricate
- Time of year — peak building season runs from May through September and typically carries the longest lead times
- Order volume — factory capacity varies throughout the year
If you’re planning a spring or summer build, placing your order early in the year is the best way to avoid delays. Orders placed in the off-season (fall and winter) generally move through production faster.
Phase 3: Delivery
Shipping is included with every Mason Steel building. Once your building is ready, it ships from one of Mason Steel’s 20 factory and distribution hubs located across the country — meaning your building doesn’t have to travel far to reach your site.
Delivery timing is coordinated based on your location and your site readiness. Your foundation needs to be complete and anchor bolts set before your building can be delivered and erected.
Phase 4: Installation
Installation time varies based on the size and complexity of your building. Mason Steel Buildings provides estimated timelines during the planning phase so you know what to expect before your kit arrives.
For smaller buildings, many customers handle assembly themselves — Mason Steel includes detailed assembly instructions with every kit. Larger or more complex structures typically require a professional crew. You’ll need standard equipment like drills, wrenches, and for larger components, a crane or forklift, scissor lift, and bobcat.
Not sure where to find an installer? Mason Steel can connect you with experienced local contractors and crews familiar with steel building assembly. You can learn more about how the process works on our Order Process page.
What Can Slow Down Your Timeline?
A few things outside of Mason Steel’s control can affect your overall schedule:
- Permit approval times — vary significantly by county and municipality
- Concrete cure time — anchor bolts need to cure before the building ships
- Weather delays — can impact site prep and installation
- Contractor availability — especially during peak building season
Have questions about what’s involved? Our FAQ page covers the most common questions buyers have before they order.
Ready to Get Your Timeline Started?
The sooner you request a quote, the sooner the clock starts. Mason Steel’s team will walk you through every phase — from engineering and permitting to delivery and installation — so there are no surprises along the way.
Not sure what size building you need? Use our 3D Building Designer to start planning your layout, or browse our steel building options to find the right fit for your project.
When you’re ready, Request a Free Quote and we’ll take it from there.
Phone: 877-76-STEEL
