The turnaround time of animation production depends on length, style and complexity. For most custom 2D and 3D explanatory animations, you can assume a process of several weeks, in which concept, storyboard, design, animation and audio follow each other logically. With a tight plan and quick feedback, you can shorten that time considerably. More background on the animation process and lead time can be found on our working method page.
October 31, 2025
At Animation Agency , the average turnaround time is 4 to 8 weeks for a 30- to 90-second animation. Shorter or simpler 2D animations are often at the lower end of that range. 3D, lots of custom illustrations, multiple languages or extensive revision rounds push the schedule to 8 weeks or longer. Deadlines are achievable when scope, schedule and feedback moments are clear up front. See 2D animation turnaround time for examples.
Duration is mainly influenced by:
By making clear choices in advance about length, style and scope, and scheduling feedback moments, you avoid production downtime.
We start with a brief intake to sharpen goal, target audience and core message. Then we work out a script that steers tightly towards your goal. Think 1 message per scene, clear call-to-action and clear voice-over text. Iterations at this stage save time in the design and animation phase.
The storyboard links the script to picture frames and describes transitions and key poses. This makes timing and narrative flow transparent. We capture this in a sharable environment so you can react in a focused way per scene. Once agreed, the structure is fixed and the design can proceed.
We develop a style framework that fits your brand and target audience. Think colors, typography, iconography and character design. Then we create key frames and assets for key scenes. Consistent choices at this stage prevent rework during animation.
The motion design phase brings everything to life: timing, easing, transitions and camera movements. In 2D, the emphasis is on shape language and rhythm; in 3D, rigging, lighting and rendering are added. We share a preview through our review environment for quick, time-code-based feedback. Learn more about our 3D animation production process.
Voice-overcasting, recording and music selection follow visual chord moments. Sound design accentuates beats, transitions and key visuals so that image and sound tell one story. We then deliver the final version in the desired formats.
In a hurry? With a compact scope, a single decision maker and tight feedback deadlines, a shortened path is possible. We then schedule fixed review slots and work iteratively in short sprints.
The ranges below will help you quickly estimate what is realistic. They are indications with normal complexity and timely feedback. For a frequently requested format, you will find concrete examples in our explanation animation: phases and planning.
For short marketing or explainer videos, count on 4-8 weeks. Longer animated films or series have a totally different scale: months to years, with pipeline, character development, extensive storyboarding and post-production. This blog focuses on business animations of 30-90 seconds.
Online, 60-90 seconds often works best for complex topics. For ads and social, 6-30 seconds is effective. Link length to your goal: what should the viewer remember or do after watching? A tighter script is usually better than extra seconds.
Cost is related to the same factors as time: length, style, complexity, number of languages and revision rounds. 2D motion graphics are more budget-friendly than 3D. If you want an accurate indication, get a clear briefing with purpose, target audience, length and references.
Want to be sure what is feasible for your deadline and scope? We are happy to think along with you and plan a realistic lead time with clear feedback moments in our review environment. You can request an indicative planning with an offer. This way you can use the power of animation without losing time.
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