max_handling_time
Maximum days between order placement and dispatch. Pairs with min_handling_time. Used by channels to compute the upper bound of delivery promises.
Also known as: handling_max
Channel support
| Channel | Status | Field name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Merchant Center | Optional | max_handling_time | — |
| Meta Commerce Manager | Optional | max_handling_time | — |
| TikTok Shop | Recommended | max_handling_time | — |
| Pinterest Catalog | Optional | max_handling_time | — |
| Amazon | Optional | fulfillment_latency_max | — |
| Bing Merchant Center | Optional | max_handling_time | — |
Why it matters
Channels show ranges ('arrives in 3-5 days'). max_handling_time sets the upper bound. Setting it too high makes your delivery look slow vs. competitors; setting it too low and missing the promise damages account trust.
Max_handling_time sets the upper bound that drives the worst-case delivery promise shown in placements. The strategic tension: tighter is more competitive (better placement, higher click-through) but missing the promise damages account trust. Set max_handling_time to what you reliably hit, not what you aspire to.
The asymmetry: missed delivery promises hurt more than slower promises win. A 1-3 day promise that delivers in 4 days gets reported as a missed delivery; a 1-5 day promise that delivers in 4 days exceeds expectations. Conservative promises that you always beat outperform aggressive promises you sometimes miss.
For items with variable handling (made-to-order, drop-shipped from supplier with own variability), declare the realistic max. Drop-shipped items might need 3-5 day handling time because supplier dispatch varies; same-day fulfilled items can declare 0-1 day. The variance should be in the field, not in the customer's experience.
Format rules
-
Integer days, ≥ min_handling_time
Applies to: Google Merchant Center, Meta Commerce Manager, Pinterest Catalog, Bing Merchant Center
Valid examples
2 Typical 1-2 day dispatch range
Related fields
min_handling_time Minimum days between order placement and dispatch. Pairs with max_handling_time to give a range. Channels use this to calculate delivery estimates shown in placements.
Read moreshipping Shipping cost for the item, structured by country and service. Required when Merchant Center can't infer shipping from your account-level settings or when prices vary by SKU.
Read moreFAQ
Should max be tight or generous?
Tight enough to be competitive, generous enough that you reliably hit it. Missed promises hurt more than slower promises.
Last reviewed: 26 May 2026
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