> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.fanfare.io/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Timed Release Distribution > Instant access at a scheduled time for flash sales and drops A **Timed Release** is a distribution mechanism that grants instant access at a scheduled time. Unlike queues or draws, there's no waiting or selection process—when the release opens, everyone gets access simultaneously. ## How Timed Releases Work Timed release lifecycle diagram showing countdown, release opens, instant access, and checkout window. ### Pre-Release Phase 1. Consumers arrive and see a countdown to the release time 2. Optionally, consumers can join a waitlist to be notified 3. Anticipation builds as the countdown approaches zero ### Release Moment 1. The clock hits the release time 2. All waiting consumers immediately receive access 3. Checkout becomes available instantly ### Access Window 1. Consumers have until the close time to complete their purchase 2. Inventory may sell out before the close time 3. Standard checkout flow applies (cart, payment, confirmation) ## The Consumer Experience ### Before Release Consumers see: * Countdown timer showing time until release * Product details and pricing * Option to join waitlist for notifications * "Add to calendar" functionality ### At Release Time Consumers experience: * Instant access—no waiting, no line, no selection * Direct path to add items to cart * Standard checkout process ### After Release If the access window is still open: * New consumers can still shop (while inventory lasts) * Products may show "sold out" as inventory depletes ## Consumer Journey Timed release consumer journey showing waiting, access granted, checkout, and complete. ## When to Use Timed Releases | Scenario | Why Timed Release Works | | -------------------- | ----------------------------------------- | | Flash sale | Everyone gets a fair shot at opening | | Product launch | Maximum excitement at drop time | | Member-only drop | Reward loyalty with instant access | | Limited-time offer | Time-bound urgency drives action | | Restock notification | Immediate access for waitlist subscribers | ## Configuration Options ### Release Time When access begins. Consumers see a countdown to this moment. **Tips:** * Choose a time that works for your audience's timezone * Consider peak engagement times (evenings, weekends) * Build anticipation with advance marketing ### Close Time When the access window ends: * **With close time**: Sale ends at this time regardless of inventory * **No close time**: Sale continues indefinitely until inventory depletes **Tips:** * Short windows (1-4 hours) create urgency * Longer windows (24+ hours) accommodate different timezones * Very short windows (15 minutes) work for lightning deals ### Guest vs. Verified Access Choose who can participate: * **Allow guests**: Maximum participation, anyone can buy * **Require accounts**: Better tracking, can limit to loyal consumers * **Verified only**: Most exclusive, best for high-value drops ## Best Practices ### 1. Build Anticipation Use countdown widgets to build excitement: * Show countdown days or weeks in advance * Send reminder emails/notifications as release approaches * Share on social media to drive traffic ### 2. Prepare for High Demand At release time, everyone arrives simultaneously: * Make sure your checkout can handle the rush * Run a test sale before major releases to verify everything works * Have a plan if something goes wrong (pause the release, extend the window, etc.) ### 3. Set Appropriate Windows Balance urgency with accessibility: | Window Length | Best For | | ------------- | -------------------------------- | | 15 minutes | Lightning deals, extreme urgency | | 1-4 hours | Flash sales, limited quantities | | 24 hours | Global audience participation | | Multi-day | Extended promotions | ### 4. Communicate Timing Clearly Show times in the consumer's local timezone: * Display both local time and countdown * Send "starting soon" reminders * Clarify when the window closes ### 5. Handle Sell-Outs Gracefully Products may sell out during the open window: * Show real-time inventory status when low * Offer waitlist for restocks * Suggest similar available products ## Common Patterns ### Standard Flash Sale * **Duration**: 24 hours * **Access**: Guest checkout allowed * **Use case**: General promotions, clearance events ### Exclusive Member Drop * **Duration**: 3-hour window * **Access**: Verified accounts only * **Use case**: VIP early access, loyalty rewards ### Countdown Launch * **Duration**: Open indefinitely after launch * **Access**: All consumers * **Use case**: New product launches, brand reveals ### Lightning Deal * **Duration**: 15-minute window * **Access**: Guest checkout allowed * **Use case**: Extreme urgency, very limited quantities ## Combining with Waitlists Use a waitlist before the timed release for maximum engagement: 1. **Before release**: Consumers join waitlist to be notified 2. **At release**: Waitlist subscribers receive instant notification 3. **During sale**: Everyone can access while inventory lasts This combination: * Captures interest before launch * Builds anticipation * Ensures engaged consumers don't miss the drop * Provides valuable demand data ## Combining with Audiences Different consumer groups can get different access times: **Example: Tiered Access** | Group | Release Time | | --------------- | -------------------------- | | VIP Members | 9:00 AM (3 hours early) | | Loyalty Program | 10:30 AM (1.5 hours early) | | General Public | 12:00 PM | This rewards loyal consumers while still allowing general access later. ## Inventory Considerations While timed releases grant instant access, inventory is still managed: * First consumers to checkout get the product * Others may see "sold out" during checkout * Consider cart reservation timers to ensure fair checkout ## Related Concepts * [Distributions Overview](/concepts/distributions/overview) — Common distribution concepts * [Queue Distribution](/concepts/distributions/queue) — First-come, first-served alternative * [Draw Distribution](/concepts/distributions/lottery) — Random selection alternative * [Auction Distribution](/concepts/distributions/auction) — Competitive bidding * [Appointment Distribution](/concepts/distributions/appointment) — Time-slot booking * [Waitlist Distribution](/concepts/distributions/exclusive) — Interest capture and notifications * [Audiences](/concepts/audiences) — Tiered access for different consumer groups