Dictionary of Procurement Terms

The period of time from the date of ordering to the date of delivery, including the time required for the supplier to manufacture or prepare the goods for shipment. May include the time needed by the procurement function to process the purchase request, issue a solicitation, evaluate bids, and award a contract. See also: Supplier Lead Time.

The total lead time required to obtain a good, service, or construction. Includes time taken by entity, supplier, transportation, receiving, and inspection.

The time that typically elapses between when an order is received by a supplier and when the material is shipped. See also: Lead Time.