Choose the menu cadence
Use a scheduled menu when the offer belongs to a dated run. Use an evergreen menu when the offer remains active and the applicable ordering and fulfilment rules can be resolved continuously.
Make the ordering window match the work window.
A cutoff is a business rule, not only text on a page. It must be clear to the shopper, enforceable by the server, and compatible with production and fulfilment timing.
Work backwards
Start with the handoff window, then allow enough time for procurement, preparation, cooling or holding, packing, route planning, and exception review. Enter the resulting cutoff in the menu configuration.
Test the boundary
Check before, at, and after the cutoff. Include an existing cart, an in-progress checkout, a delayed provider result, a full capacity pool, and a merchant edit made during the flow.
Preserve accepted facts
Confirm that a later menu or product edit does not change the item, price, menu, run, modifier, or fulfilment details stored on a confirmed order.