Using subqueues to enhance local message processing

The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for using subqueues to enhance local message processing. Messages include queue IDs comprised of a parent portion and a suffix portion. The parent portion identifies a parent queue and the suffix portion identifies a subqueue of the parent queue. Message are logically moved between queues by changing suffix values, such as, for example, between subqueues, between the parent queue and a subqueue, and between a subqueue and the parent queue. Applications can examine messages and route messages to specified subqueues based on message content (including message bodies and headers). Suffix values can be changed in place (e.g., while the message remains physically stored in the queue) so as to preserve message sender identity and to avoid prematurely acknowledging delivery (i.e., no return ACK is generated).