Scheduling Glossary

Minimum Notice Period

The shortest advance time required before an appointment can be booked, preventing last-minute scheduling surprises.

Definition

Minimum notice period (also called minimum scheduling notice or lead time) is the time buffer required between when a booking is made and when it can occur. For example, 4-hour minimum notice means clients cannot book an appointment starting within the next 4 hours. This gives you time to prepare, prevents surprise meetings, and ensures you see new bookings before they occur.

Examples of Minimum Notice Period

24-hour minimum notice for consulting sessions to review materials

2-hour notice for quick calls to prevent interrupting current work

48-hour notice for in-person meetings requiring travel

Same-day booking allowed (0 minimum notice) for urgent support

Why Minimum Notice Period Matters

Without minimum notice, clients could book meetings 5 minutes from now, disrupting your current focus. Minimum notice ensures adequate preparation time and respects your workflow. Different appointment types warrant different notice requirements.

How SchedulingKit Handles Minimum Notice Period

Set minimum notice per event type. A 15-minute check-in might allow same-day, while a strategy session requires 48-hour notice. SchedulingKit automatically hides time slots that don't meet the notice requirement.

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FAQ

Common Questions About Minimum Notice Period

What's a good minimum notice setting?

Depends on the meeting type. Casual/quick: 1-4 hours. Professional/prepared: 24 hours. Formal/travel required: 48-72 hours.

Can invitees override minimum notice?

Not directly through the booking page. For urgent exceptions, share a one-time link or manually create the booking.

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