A method for handling out-of-synchronization (SYNC) includes generating a plurality of combination sets of transport channels utilized by a communication device. The method also includes selecting, based on a window-based parameter, a highest-ranking combination set of transport channels out of the plurality of combination sets of transport channels. The highest-ranking combination set of transport channels excludes one or more out-of-SYNC transport channels. The method further comprises providing, to a window-based data processing unit, data packets from transport channels in the highest-ranking combination set of transport channels, without providing data packets from the one or more out-of-SYNC transport channels to the window-based data processing unit. Apparatus and machine-readable media for out-of-SYNC avoidance and/or detection are also provided.