What is the term for the time it takes from when an order is placed until it is received?

The term that describes the time taken from when an order is placed until it is received is "lead time." Lead time encompasses the entire process from the initiation of the order, through production or procurement activities, until the moment the order is delivered to the customer. It is a critical metric in supply chain management as it influences inventory levels, customer satisfaction, and overall efficiency of operations.

Understanding lead time helps organizations optimize their processes and improve response times to customer needs. It plays a significant role in inventory management; shorter lead times can enhance a company's ability to maintain lower inventory levels while still meeting demand.

The other terms each refer to different concepts: cycle time typically outlines the duration for a complete process, turnaround time often pertains to service delivery contexts, and procurement duration may imply only the time associated with acquiring goods rather than the entire order fulfillment process. Thus, lead time is the most comprehensive and appropriate term in this context.