How long does it take to launch an eCommerce site?

Launching an eCommerce site is an exciting step toward modernizing your business and making it easier for customers to order equipment and parts. But one of the biggest questions manufacturers and distributors have is:

"How long does it take to launch an eCommerce site?"

The answer depends on your starting point. Are you migrating from an existing platform? Do you have organized product data? Do you need custom integrations? Let's break down three common scenarios, each with its own timeline.

Three Factors Influencing Your Launch Timeline

1. Replatforming: A Faster Transition for Companies Already Online

If your company already has an online presence—whether through a dealer portal, customer portal, or a legacy eCommerce site—you may be able to launch a new platform in a relatively short time frame.

Average timeline: 3 to 4 months

Since you already have product data, customer insights, and experience operating in a digital environment, the process primarily involves migrating existing data, integrating key tools, and ensuring a seamless transition. The more structured your existing data and processes are, the faster the transition will be.

Companies that take advantage of their existing digital footprint and work with an experienced implementation partner can often complete the process in just a few months.

The key is to identify your goals for choosing to replatform.  If significant custom development is required to meet your new goals, this timeframe may not be long enough.

2. First-Time eCommerce Launch with Prepared Data

For companies launching eCommerce for the first time but with well-organized product data in an ERP, PIM, or other system, the process takes a little longer.

Average timeline: 6 months

Even with structured product data, launching an eCommerce site involves:

• Integration to important business systems

• Organizing and optimizing product categories and attributes

• Setting up pricing, customer groups, and ordering workflows

• Implementing payment, tax and freight solutions

• Training internal teams and conducting thorough testing

Having well-structured data and internal alignment on goals will help keep this timeline on track.

3. Data Cleanup, Custom Integrations, and Complex Needs

If your company has unstructured product data, complex pricing models, or requires extensive customization and integration with multiple systems, the launch timeline will take longer.

Average timeline: 7 to 8+ months

Several factors can add time to the process, including:

• Cleaning and structuring product data

• Developing unique workflows and customer-specific pricing models

• Connecting ERP, PIM, CRM, and other systems across multiple locations and brands for seamless operations

While this process takes more time, investing in a well-built, future-ready eCommerce or Customer Portal site ensures long-term success and avoids the need for costly adjustments later.

How to Speed Up the Process

No matter which scenario fits your business, a few best practices can help reduce delays and streamline the implementation process:

• Secure leadership buy-in early. Getting alignment on priorities and goals will prevent delays down the road.

• Prepare your data ahead of time. The more structured and organized your product data is before implementation begins, the faster the setup process will be.

• Choose a platform designed for manufacturers and distributors. Avoid excessive custom development by selecting a solution built for the unique needs of your industry.

• Work with an experienced partner. A knowledgeable team can help navigate common roadblocks and recommend best practices.

Final Thoughts: Your Timeline Depends on Your Readiness

There is no universal answer to how long it takes to launch an eCommerce site. The timeline depends on the complexity of your project, the resources dedicated to it, and the level of preparation before implementation begins.

• Companies that are replatforming and already have structured data may launch in as little as three to four months.

• Businesses new to eCommerce with well-prepared data can expect the process to take around six months.

• Organizations that need data cleanup, complex pricing structures, and custom integrations should plan for seven to eight months or more.

The best way to determine your actual timeline is to assess your current state and work with a team that understands the complexities of B2B eCommerce.

If you’re looking for the right partner to help you launch an eCommerce site, you can learn more at genalpha.com or contact one of our experts if you have any questions.