WAITING & FLOW DELAYS
Queue Time
Queue time is the time work waits before an intended processing or service step. In logistics it can affect orders, vehicles, materials or tasks, depending on the measured boundary.
QUEUE TIME IN PRACTICE
- Define the intervalChoose arrival-to-start events for the queue.
- Observe the conditionsTrack workload, priority and available resources.
- Review the whole flowTest causes and downstream effects.
Use the agreed units, actual records and approved procedures for your operation.
A WORKED EXAMPLE
Five minutes of work can follow hours of waiting.
An order waits two hours before a five-minute packing task. The team records the wait separately from active packing time to understand the customer’s elapsed order cycle.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR QUOTE
Agree the requirement before comparing quotes
Use the actual shipment, stock and service requirements. Record the billing unit, included work and responsibility for exceptions.
A LITTLE MORE CONTEXT
Questions about Queue Time
Is queue time active processing time?
No.
Can averages hide long delays?
Yes.
Can upstream speed increase a downstream queue?
Yes.
Source & example notes
Definition and operational example prepared by 3PL Hub. Examples describe hypothetical requirements; verify the actual records and agreed procedures for your operation.
Quantities, costs and scenarios are illustrative, not operating targets, approved handling instructions or guarantees. Source guidance reviewed 23 October 2026.
Last updated: · 3PL Hub
