A packet schedule timestamp is provided. A schedule information packet includes a packet schedule timestamp that represents the relative timing of data packets in a particular bitstream of a multiplexed transport stream. The schedule information packet further provides information about the timing of packets within a bitstream or multiple bitstreams before actual packet arrivals. Look-ahead processing techniques are provided to improve the efficiency of compressed bitstream storage and delivery, such as program stream to transport stream conversion and statistical multiplexing. The packet schedule information can be inserted into the bitstream it describes for transmission or storage with it. Other features, such as timing reconstruction, are also provided. The packet schedule information can be used to reconstruct the timing of the transport packets to their original state.