Netflix Throttling

[Alex]

Here is an in depth analysis from 2003:

http://dvd-rent-test.dreamhost.com/

Also, another issue that occurred to me is that would increase the appearance of throttling for frequent new release renters:

Generally you will receive your discs from your local distribution center (Netflix has them all over the country and are essentially large video rental stores with no public access and robots) but when you request an in demand movie, in order to fulfill the request Netflix may not be able to provide it from the center just outside of Boston (in Worcester) but rather from the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, center. Needless to say, this will add shipping time.

I don't want to come off as too much of a Netflix apologist (though I love my Netflix). If they do anything that acts to limit the number and choices of DVDs you can have shipped then they should be completely open about it.