Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

The term that accurately describes the time taken to process an order from receipt to delivery is known as "Order cycle time." This concept encompasses all steps involved in fulfilling an order, including order receipt, processing, picking, packing, and shipping, until the final delivery to the customer. Recognizing this term is vital for logistics professionals who aim to streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction, as it measures the efficiency of the order fulfillment process.

While “Lead time” is often confused with order cycle time, it specifically focuses more on the time from the point an order is placed until it is received, commonly encompassing not just processing but also sourcing materials or products, which may not always align with the specific context of order fulfillment. The term "Processing time" refers solely to the time required to process the order internally, excluding delivery timelines. On the other hand, "Delivery span" generally pertains to the time frame of delivery activities without integrating the entire order processing sequence. Understanding these distinctions helps clearly define operational metrics in logistics and supply chain management.