Backorder vs. pre-order

    A backorder is an item sold while temporarily out of stock; a pre-order is an item sold before it exists yet.

    Why it matters

    Treating the two the same in customer messaging is a common source of confusion and cancellations.

    Related terms

    WISMO

    The shorthand for customer inquiries asking where an order stands after purchase.

    Made-to-order lead time

    The time between an order being placed and a made-to-order product being ready to ship.

    Fulfillment SLA

    An internal agreement that sets a target time for each stage of order fulfillment, from proof to production to shipment.