What does 'order cycle time' refer to in logistics?

Order cycle time is the comprehensive duration that begins when a customer places an order and concludes when the order is delivered to the customer. This encompasses every step in the order fulfillment process, including order processing, picking, packing, shipping, and delivery.

By understanding this definition, it's clear why the total time from order placement to delivery is considered the correct interpretation of order cycle time. It highlights essential logistics functions like inventory management, warehouse operations, and transportation, all of which contribute to the overall effectiveness and customer satisfaction in logistics.

The other options focus on specific segments of the logistics process rather than the whole cycle from the initiation of the order to its completion. For instance, while inventory receipt to warehousing pertains to inbound logistics, it does not account for the entire order fulfillment process. Similarly, fulfilling backorders deals with processing orders that could not be immediately completed, and processing returns pertains to reverse logistics, which are specific operations rather than the complete order cycle.