Understanding and setting lead times for handling and preparing orders

Lead times in Twice Commerce help you manage the preparation time needed between when an order is placed and when it's ready for pickup or delivery. Properly configured lead times ensure smooth operations and set clear expectations with customers.

What are Lead Times?

Lead times represent the minimum notice period required to prepare an order. This includes:

• Order processing time
• Product preparation and quality checks
• Any special handling requirements
• Delivery scheduling (if applicable)

Setting Up Lead Times

For Individual Products

1. Go to Catalog > Products in your Twice Commerce admin
2. Select the product you want to configure
3. Scroll to Advanced Settings
4. Under "Reservations must be made latest," set your minimum notice period
5. Click Save to apply changes

For Product Categories

1. Navigate to Catalog > Categories
2. Select the category to modify
3. Find the Online booking buffer section
4. Set the minimum notice period
5. Save your changes

Note: When both product and category lead times are set, the system will use the longer of the two periods.

Best Practices

• Start Conservative: Begin with longer lead times and adjust down as you optimize operations.
• Consider Your Operations: Factor in staff availability, preparation complexity, and delivery requirements.
• Account for Peak Periods: You may need longer lead times during busy seasons.
• Review Regularly: Monitor if your lead times are causing missed opportunities or operational stress.

Special Considerations

• Lead times apply differently for delivery orders — only the delivery notice period will be used, overriding the product settings.
• Changes to lead times only affect future orders.
• Lead time setting blocks availability for those start times that fall within the notice period.
• Different products may require different lead times based on preparation needs.

Impact on Customer Experience

• Clear lead times set proper expectations
• Customers see accurate availability when browsing
• Reduced risk of rushed fulfillment and potential errors

Need more help? Contact our support team via the in-app chat.