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.
Also known as: handling_min
Channel support
| Channel | Status | Field name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Merchant Center | Optional | min_handling_time | — Docs → |
| Meta Commerce Manager | Optional | min_handling_time | — |
| TikTok Shop | Recommended | min_handling_time | — |
| Pinterest Catalog | Optional | min_handling_time | — |
| Amazon | Required | fulfillment_latency | Required for FBM listings. |
| Bing Merchant Center | Optional | min_handling_time | — |
Why it matters
Channels display 'arrives by X' in Shopping placements. Accurate handling times produce accurate delivery promises, which improves conversion. Overstated handling times (8-10 days for an item that ships next-day) suppress click-through.
Min_handling_time and max_handling_time together set the time-from-order-to-dispatch range. Channels combine this with carrier transit times to compute the "arrives by X" delivery promises shown in placements. Accurate handling times produce accurate delivery promises, which improves conversion. Overstated times (8-10 days for next-day-dispatch items) suppress click-through.
The convention: business days, not calendar days. Same-day dispatch = 0 days. Next business day = 1 day. Channels calculate weekends and holidays separately based on destination region. The values should reflect actual warehouse operations, not aspirational targets.
The range matters because tight ranges (1-2 days) earn faster delivery promises than loose ones (1-5 days). Items shipped consistently within 1 day should declare 1-1 day range, not 1-3. The conservative-padding instinct costs visibility against competitors who declare tighter ranges.
Format rules
-
Integer days (0 for same-day dispatch)
Applies to: Google Merchant Center, Meta Commerce Manager, TikTok Shop, Pinterest Catalog, Amazon, Bing Merchant Center
-
Must be ≤ max_handling_time
Applies to: Google Merchant Center, Meta Commerce Manager, Pinterest Catalog, Bing Merchant Center
Valid examples
0 Same-day dispatch
1 Next business day
3 Made-to-order or warehouse delay
Related fields
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.
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
Do business days or calendar days matter?
Business days. Channels calculate weekends and holidays separately based on the destination region.
Last reviewed: 26 May 2026
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