Before a PO is ever generated, we know a relative estimate of lead times for orders that are placed.

Once a vendor is given a PO, we ask for ETA as well as tracking information. This information goes into a report to tell a warehouse or facility when to expect each item. 

The most important step in this process is follow-up. Distributors will not always know right away when an item is shipping. We aren't afraid to pick up a phone and ask them directly for the information.