Queue time refers to the waiting period during which inventory, orders, or work-in-progress remain idle before moving to the next stage in the supply chain or production process. High queue times indicate inefficiencies such as bottlenecks, capacity constraints, or scheduling issues, which can increase lead times and inventory holding costs.Reducing queue time is essential for improving flow, shortening cycle times, and optimizing inventory turnover. Techniques such as lean manufacturing, process automation, and real-time monitoring can help identify and eliminate causes of delay. Efficient queue management directly enhances supply chain responsiveness and service levels.
