One embodiment of the invention sets forth a method for performing a queue allocation operation that includes receiving a memory address associated with a queue allocation aperture, where the memory address is read by a client to request memory space in a memory queue for a payload, computing a payload size based on the memory address, determining an insertion pointer for the payload based on a first position of a horizon pointer, where the insertion pointer indicates a location within the memory queue for the client to insert the payload, adjusting the horizon pointer to a second position based on the payload size, and returning the insertion pointer to the client. Such an approach enables multiple clients to advantageously request and obtain space within a shared memory queue in a single atomic operation, thereby allowing clients to share a memory queue more efficiently relative to prior art approaches.