Delivery Window
Also known as: Delivery Time Window, Delivery Slot, Appointment Window
Definition
A delivery window tells the recipient when to expect their package. Precision varies from “by end of day” to “between 2-4 PM”—with tighter windows typically costing more.
Delivery Window Types
| Type | Window Size | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Day range | “Dec 15-18” |
| Day-definite | Specific day | “December 15” |
| Commitment | By end of day | “Dec 15 by 8 PM” |
| AM delivery | Morning | “Before noon” |
| Scheduled | Hour range | “2:00-4:00 PM” |
Window Precision by Service
E-commerce parcel:
- Standard shipping: 3-5 day window
- Premium: specific date
- Same-day: 1-2 hour window
LTL Freight:
- Standard: day estimate
- Appointment: 2-4 hour window
- Premium: 1-hour window
Cost of Tighter Windows
Narrower delivery windows typically increase costs:
- Precise scheduling requires more logistics
- Carriers charge for guaranteed windows
- Failed deliveries more costly
Managing Delivery Windows
For shippers:
- Set realistic expectations
- Provide tracking updates
- Offer window selection at checkout
For receivers:
- Enable carrier notifications
- Provide delivery preferences
- Use pickup alternatives if window doesn’t work
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