Estimated Delivery
The projected date when a completed film and all required materials will be delivered to distributors.
Definition
Estimated delivery is the date producers commit to having a completed film plus all required deliverables ready for distribution. These deliverables go beyond the final cut to include various formats, audio mixes, color-corrected versions, music and effects tracks, legal documentation, marketing materials, and more.
Delivery dates drive everything upstream—post-production schedules work backward from delivery requirements.
Why It Matters
Distribution agreements hinge on delivery dates. Missing delivery can void contracts, forfeit bonuses, or incur penalties. Release dates, marketing campaigns, and theater bookings all depend on reliable delivery.
Understanding delivery requirements helps set realistic post-production schedules.
Examples in Practice
A film's estimated delivery is set 12 weeks after picture lock to allow time for final color, audio mixing, and deliverable preparation.
A producer negotiates a later delivery date after post-production reveals needed VFX work will take longer than budgeted.
A distributor requires 6 weeks between delivery and release to prepare marketing materials and schedule theaters.