How long does animation production take?

What is the average turnaround time for an animation?

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.

This determines how long animation production takes

Duration is mainly influenced by:

• Length of animation - Each additional 15 seconds means more shots, assets and render work.
• Style and technology - 2D motion graphics with simple shapes go faster than detail-rich 2D illustrations or 3D animation with texturing and lighting.
• Complexity of content - Abstract or technical topics require more script and storyboard iterations to make it clear.
• Number of stakeholders - More decision makers often means more rounds of feedback and waiting time.
• Available input - An approved script, corporate identity guide, assets and references accelerate design and animation.
• Feedback speed - Comments within 24-48 hours keep the momentum going. Our centralized review environment with time-coded comments helps with this.
• Audio and languages - Voice-overcasting, recording, music licensing and subtitling by language add days.

By making clear choices in advance about length, style and scope, and scheduling feedback moments, you avoid production downtime.

This is how animation production proceeds step by step

1. Concept and script

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.

2. Storyboard and visual flow

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.

3. Style development and design

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.

4. Animation and motion

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.

5. Audio: voice-over, music and sound design

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.

Fast tracks

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.

Time estimate by type and length

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.

• 2D explainer animation (30-60 sec): 3-6 weeks
• 2D corporate animation (60-90 sec): 4-8 weeks
• 3D animation (30-60 sec): 6-10 weeks
• 3D animation (60-90 sec): 8-12 weeks
• Technical animation (45-90 sec): 6-10 weeks
• Multilingual variants (+subtitles/VO): +3-7 days per language

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make an animated film?

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.

How long can an animation be?

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.

How much does it cost to have an animation made?

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.