Glossary · System coordination, integration and orchestration

Last in, first out (LIFO)

Also known as: LIFO, stack order

German: Last In, First Out (LIFO)

In computing and logistics, last in, first out (LIFO) is an ordering principle in which the most recently added item is processed or removed first, as in a stack.

System integration

In one sentence

Last in, first out handles the most recently added item first, as in a stack, so older items wait until newer ones are gone.

Example

Sheets stacked on a pallet are picked LIFO by the loading robot, because only the top sheet is accessible.

How it applies

Logistics: LIFO often follows from physical constraints such as stacks, drive-in racks or single-access buffers. It can leave the oldest material in place for a long time, which matters for materials with shelf life or traceability requirements.
Software: Stacks are LIFO structures, used for example in undo functions and call handling. Queues of commands or events are usually FIFO; using LIFO there can make old requests wait indefinitely.
Documentation: Where material is handled LIFO, operating instructions should say how operators ensure rotation or how batch traceability is maintained.

LIFO vs. FIFO

First in, first out (FIFO) processes items in arrival order and preserves age order. LIFO processes the newest item first. The terms are also used in inventory accounting, with a different, financial meaning.