We are jumping right into a topic that is not only one of our most commonly asked questions, but also extremely relevant as teams start to prepare for a new season. We are talking timelines! For all our planners out there, we are going to walk you through a sample order, from day zero to delivery day.

Follow along as we answer: “How long does it take to get an order from Runback?” Ordering curling gear isn’t like buying off the shelf. You’re creating a fully custom product — one that fits your team, your style, your sponsors, and your timeline. And while we do our best to make the process quick, there are a few key steps along the way that take time. This guide breaks it all down so your team can be suited up from that very first slide of the year to the final shot of the season.

Step-by-Step Timeline (From Start to Finish)

Get Started!

Timeline
1 Day

Design Form Submission

– Fill out the Create Your Design form
– Choose the design
– Pick your colours
– Provide concept details
– Send us any logos you already have

Pro Tip: The better your logo files, the faster we can get a proof to you.

Need help with logos? Check out our vector blog:
What Is a Vector File and Why Your Curling Team Needs One

Timeline
2-10 Days

Design Proofing

You’ll get a digital proof to review. We include two free rounds of revisions for any changes you want to make.

After submitting the Create Your Design form, you can expect to receive your initial mockup within:

Stock Design: 2–3 business days
Semi Custom Design: 3–5 business days
Custom Design: 5–10 business days

The proofing stage can be quick, but it depends on:
– How complex the design is
– How quickly you provide feedback
– Whether logos are proper vectors (print ready)

Pro Tip: Provide as many details as possible on your design form and focus on minimal rounds of changes

Timeline
1 Day

Order Form Submission

Once your design is approved, we send you the Clothing Order Form. This is where you submit:

– Styles (Jacket, Shirt, Hoodie, etc…)
– Quantities
– Sizes
– Player names and/or numbers
– Sponsor gear

Pro Tip: If you’re still waiting on one player, submit the rest — we can follow up later.

Timeline
1-2 Days

Invoice & Payment

Once we have your team’s completed order form, we will send an order confirmation. If you notice any issues please let us know immediately.

Once the order is received you can expect an invoice in 1-2 business days.
Payment is due before production begins.

We accept:
– E-transfer (Preferred)
– EFT
– Cheque
– Credit card

Timeline
25-30 Days

Production

Once everything is approved and paid, your order goes into production.

Production Steps:
– Pre-Production (File Setup)
– Printing
– Sublimation (Heat Transfer)
– Cutting
– Sewing
– Quality Control
– Packing
– Shipping

Pro Tip: Rush orders may be possible for a fee depending on the season (ask early)

Timeline
1-5 Days

Shipping & Delivery

Standard ground delivery is 2–5 business days. We can also overnight ship and in most cases this takes 1-2 business days.

Pro Tip: Overnight shipping can be costly, but it is often more reliable for quick turnarounds

Delivery Day!

What Slows Things Down?

Our team is ready and we like to work quickly — but a few common things can cause delays:

  • Missing or non-vector logos
  • Slow feedback on proofs
  • Multiple people providing feedback on proofs/confirmations
  • Late submission on order forms
  • Changes after approval
  • Waiting too long to pay your invoice

Ideal Ordering Timeline

Here’s our safe zone if you want stress-free delivery before a key date:

TARGET DELIVERY DATE PLACE ORDER & PAY INVOICE BY:
Tour Season At least 30 business days before your first game
September 1st July 15th
October 1st August 14th
November 1st September 15th

 Runback Pro Tips:

  1. Have one person in charge of communication — this is crucial in reducing delays due to multiple messages and/or proofs. It also keeps confusion to a minimum
  2. Start early — We can’t stress this enough. You don’t need every detail figured out to get started.
  3. Ask about rush orders early — we’ll do what we can but limited rushes are available.
  4. Use our checklist to gather info fast (we’ll send it if you need it).
  5. Be thorough with revisions – providing multiple changes at once allows our designers to maximize productivity.
  6. Allow enough time for shipping – be mindful of factors beyond your control like: winter weather, holiday volume, general shipping delays. Be prepared with as much “buffer time” as possible.

Ready to Start?

Fill out our Design Form and we’ll take it from there!

We’ve done this thousands of times — we’ll guide you every step of the way.

The earlier you start, the more confident you’ll look. Lock in your design now, and get ready to sweep the season in style!

Oh! And here is a life “H.A.C.K.” for you! If you have any questions while planning your order, or anytime, our virtual curling gear assistant H.A.C.K. is available 24/7 on runback.ca