To ensure your releases go live on Spotify on time, all content must be delivered with enough advance notice. Below are the required lead times based on Spotify's Service Level Guideline (SLG).
Required Lead Times
Delivery type | Minimum lead time |
New release (insert) | 5 business days before release date |
Updates to an existing release | 2 business days before expected live date |
Takedowns | 2 business days before expected live date |
These timelines apply to all releases distributed through limbo.
What counts as a complete delivery?
Spotify requires that all deliveries are final and complete at the time of submission. This means:
Audio files must be the final, mastered version.
Artwork must be the final version.
Metadata must be accurate and complete.
Our recommendation
We strongly encourage submitting releases at least 2–3 weeks in advance of the release date. This gives you time to:
Pitch your release to Spotify's editorial team via Spotify for Artists (requires unreleased music and sufficient lead time).
Run pre-save campaigns and other pre-release promotional activities.
Resolve any technical issues without putting your release date at risk.
Important notes
Business days do not include weekends or public holidays.
Delivering late or with incomplete/incorrect files may result in your release not going live on the scheduled date.
Questions? Reach out to our team at [email protected].