Actual Time of Departure (ATD) is the precise, confirmed time at which a shipment, vehicle, vessel, or aircraft physically departs from its origin point or designated location. Unlike estimated or scheduled departure times, ATD represents the factual moment of departure as recorded by logistics systems, serving as a critical data point for supply chain visibility, performance measurement, and downstream planning. This timestamp is typically captured automatically through gate systems, GPS devices, or transportation management systems at the exact moment the conveyance exits the facility or port.
Key Characteristics
- Factual vs. Estimated Timing
- Automated Data Capture
- Supply Chain Visibility Foundation
- Performance Measurement and Accountability
- Cascading Impact on Supply Chain Events
